Google Makes Browsing Feel More Human With ‘Circle To Search’
Video screenshot via Google
Google has been reshaping the way people search, whether by voice or by humming a tune. With its new ‘Circle to Search’ feature, it’s on its way to closing the loop (wink).
The AI-powered Circle to Search allows users to pinpoint objects they’re curious about directly from any app on their phone using simple gestures like circling, highlighting, or tapping. This means you can now initiate a query in various contexts, such as circling an item in a photo, tapping on a restaurant name in a chat, or swiping across a string of text in an article. The function is designed to make the act of searching feel more natural and less disruptive to your current activity.
When you use a gesture to look up something, a search overlay appears at the bottom of the screen, showing results related to the selected text or image. This seamless integration means you can conduct searches without having to leave the app you’re currently using, embedding the power of Google Search in every app on your phone.
Video screenshot via Google
Video via Google
Beyond convenience, the feature is about depth. Circle to Search can be paired with other Google search tools like Lens to provide insights into various items. For instance, circling sunglasses in a video or scribbling on a pair of boots can bring up related shopping options from across the web.
Video screenshot via Google
Imagine you’re watching a fashion video and want to know more about a particular item. With Circle to Search, you can simply activate the feature, circle the item, and instantly find similar options to buy online. Or, if you come across an image of a unique dish on social media and want to know more about it, Circle to Search lets you circle the item and ask a question, like “Why are these so popular?” You’ll get a comprehensive answer that combines text and image search, satisfying your curiosity and perhaps even whetting your appetite.
Video via Google
Circle to Search will be available on premium Android smartphones, including the new Samsung Galaxy S24 Series and the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, starting January 31. This addition represents Google’s stance on how AI can be incorporated into our everyday lives to draw information closer to us.
[via TechCrunch and GSMArena.com, videos and screenshots via Google]
