Google is launching a new “Circle to Search” feature on Jan. 31, letting Android phone users get instant search results using simple gestures.
Circle to Search is an Android feature that allows users to draw a circle on the smartphone screen or highlight with their fingers to instantly view search results when they encounter something of interest while viewing images or videos. It allows viewing search results directly on the same screen without launching the Google search application, making it a convenient feature.
When scrolling through an Instagram feed, if a user wants to know more about a bag in a photo, they can use Circle to Search by holding down the home button or navigation bar on their phone. Once activated, the user can mark the bag in the feed with their finger. Google Lens will then identify it, showing search results like bag descriptions and where to buy it directly on the feed screen.
“With simple and intuitive gestures, users can search for the information they need without opening a separate app or leaving the screen, enhancing convenience,” Google explained. “Once users have reviewed all the necessary information, they can return to the original window with a simple swipe down.”
Circle to Search will be available from Jan. 31 on three premium Android phones, including Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S24. The Circle to Search feature is accessible in all languages, including Korean.