Circle to search allows users to search for a specific product using an image or text without switching the app
Google has introduced an upgraded mobile web search feature named “Circle to Search,” enabling users to quickly search for products or gather information on a particular topic through a simple gesture. Initially accessible on Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 smartphones, Google has announced plans to extend this feature to additional premium phones in the near future.
Contrary to its name, Circle to Search isn’t confined to circles. Users can also mark or scribble on a particular area of an image to discover similar products, making it perfect for identifying items seen in brief videos or social media posts.
The notable aspect of Circle to Search is the capability to search for anything without transitioning to another app. There’s no necessity to capture a screenshot of an image, streamlining the Google search process to just one step, facilitated by the latest Google app.
Presently, Circle to Search is restricted to specific Android smartphones. Its functionality extends beyond product exploration, as it can also address intricate queries using multisearch—a Google Search feature capable of simultaneously recognizing and analyzing both text and images. Whether highlighting text in an article, photo, or video, Circle to Search provides pertinent explanations, including results generated by AI.
How to use Google’s Circle to Search?
Utilizing Circle to Search features involves two methods. For users employing navigation buttons, a long press on the home screen triggers a Google Search menu, allowing you to circle or scribble on the desired product for the search.
Likewise, for users employing gesture-based navigation, a long-press on the gesture bar allows you to circle, scribble, or highlight text or products for further information.
For those with smartphones equipped with a stylus (S-Pen), such as the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the S-Pen can be used to circle around a product or scribble. On other models, circling or scribbling can be done with fingers, and in both cases, the feature works seamlessly.
If you lack access to the latest smartphones with this feature, there is a method to achieve a similar search experience, albeit without the ability to circle or scribble. Long-press on the home button or swipe from the bottom right or left corner, then choose screen search. Afterward, highlight the image or text you want to search, and the search results will resemble the Circle to Search experience.
