In a move set to redefine how users conduct searches on their smartphones, a new feature called “Circle to Search” has been introduced on the latest Samsung Galaxy S24 series and Google’s Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This innovative feature allows users to perform Google searches directly by circling or tapping on elements displayed on their phone screens, eliminating the need for cumbersome screenshots and app switching.
The Circle to Search feature operates seamlessly on the device, accessible anywhere by long-pressing the home button or using the navigation handle for gesture-enabled devices. Users can circle, highlight, or tap on various subjects, including text and images, making it an intuitive and versatile tool for quick searches. The convenience of Circle to Search lies in its ability to cut out the administrative overhead associated with traditional search methods.
During a brief demo on the Galaxy S24, the Circle to Search feature showcased its efficacy in isolating search subjects and delivering relevant results. While not hailed as a revolutionary search method, it has been deemed a practical and user-friendly addition, streamlining the search process for users on the go.
Alongside the Circle to Search debut, Google has rolled out an update to its multisearch feature. Multisearch, an existing Lens feature, enables users to modify visual searches by adding keywords. The upgrade now allows users to pose complex questions to refine visual searches further.
For instance, after capturing an image of a plant, users can enhance their search by asking, “How often should I water this?” This enhancement to multisearch aims to provide users with deeper insights into the ‘why’ behind visual elements, catering to those seeking more context or information beyond simple identification.
Circle to Search is currently exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. However, plans are underway to extend this feature to other “select, premium” Android phones in the near future. Meanwhile, the upgraded multisearch feature is set to be available in the Google app for both Android and iOS devices, starting today. However, it will initially be accessible only to users in the United States.
While the Circle to Search feature may not revolutionize internet searching, it addresses the practical challenges users often face, offering a more efficient and user-friendly alternative. With the multisearch upgrade, Google aims to cater to users’ growing demands for in-depth information, positioning these features as valuable tools in the evolving landscape of mobile search capabilities. As technology continues to advance, these innovations mark a promising step towards more seamless and intuitive user experiences in the digital realm.
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