Circle to Search is a new feature that promises to revolutionize the way users interact with their Android devices. Not only can you Search for items directly from the screen, but you can do it without leaving the application you are in. This tool, developed by Google in collaboration with Samsung, uses artificial intelligence to allow users to perform quick and precise visual searches with just a simple gesture. Many users are already familiar with the concept of visual search, but Circle to Search takes this feature one step further by introducing a more fluid and agile way of interacting with anything that appears on the screen, be it images, text or even music, thanks to its future integration with audio searches. Let's explore what this interesting feature is, how it works and on which devices it will be available.
What is Circle to Search and how does it work?
Circle to Search (translated as “Surround to Search”) is a tool that allows you to perform searches for any content that is visible on the screen of your Android mobile. Its operation is as simple as drawing a circle around the element you want to search for, whether it is an image, text or any other visible content.
How is the process? You simply have to hold down the home button or perform some gesture depending on your device settings to enable the feature. Then, you can surround the element with your finger where you are interested in learning more. For example, if you see an item of clothing in a video or photo, you can circle it and Google will immediately give you options on where to buy it or similar information. However, this functionality is not without its flaws.
In addition, Circle to Search has the advantage of not interrupting what you are doingThere is no need to switch windows or applications, as a small pop-up bar at the bottom of the screen will show you the results obtained by Google.
Another interesting feature is the possibility of make more complex searchesYou can combine images and text, allowing for more detailed answers. For example, if you come across an unfamiliar word in an image, you can circle it and ask the AI a direct question, which will provide you with a precise answer.
Supported devices and expansion of Circle to Search
The function Circle to Search It began its journey in high-end devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 and Google Pixel 8Although it was initially exclusive to these devices, Google has confirmed that over the months it will be integrated into more Android phones and tablets.
Manufacturers that will soon have this functionality include: Xiaomi (which is preparing the arrival of Circle to Search to the Xiaomi 14T series), Alive and other high-end phones that will benefit from this innovative tool throughout 2024. In addition, brands such as Samsung They will also extend it to their mid-range devices such as the Galaxy A series and some tablets such as the Galaxy Tab S9.
Google has expressed its intention to have this technology working in 200 million devices by the end of 2024. This means that if your phone does not yet have this feature, the chances of it reaching you are increasing.
Mobiles that currently have the Circle to Search functionality.
- Galaxy S24, S24 + and S24 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 and S23 +
- Galaxy S22 and S22 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6
- Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5
- Galaxy A54 and A34
- Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
- HONOR Magic V3
- HONOR 200 series
New features of Circle to Search
This Google tool doesn't stop at simple visual search. With the integration of artificial intelligenceGoogle continues to work on updates that will take the tool to a new level. One of the most notable features currently being tested is the audio search within Circle to Search, which will allow you to identify songs or sounds being played by simply circling them on the screen.
This new feature will be a great advantage for music lovers, who will be able to identify songs without the need for third-party applications such as Shazam. This feature has already been detected in Google app beta versions, and is scheduled to be launched definitively in the coming months.
Also, one of the latest updates already available allows share the results obtained with Circle to Search in a quick and easy way. Without the need for screenshots, users can send the information or content obtained directly to applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Google Photos.