Leveraging the latest generative AI features and the power of Lens, Google has introduced a new search feature called ‘Circle to Search’ and upgraded its existing multisearch feature. The Circle to Search is a new way to search for anything on your Android phone without switching apps.
Circle to Search
First announced for the Galaxy S24 series, this feature lets you search anything instantly with gestures like circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping at the search element.
Just long-press the home button or navigation bar on your Android phone to activate Circle to Search. From there, you can select any item you see with your preferred gesture — like circling sunglasses, or a bag in the image — to quickly find similar, shoppable options from retailers across the web.
Upgraded Multisearch
Multisearch is an existing feature on Lens that lets users search with text and images at the same time. In the latest update, this feature now uses Google’s generative AI to offer a more interactive experience to users.
When users point the camera to an object or upload an image, asking a question through the Google app yields AI-powered insights beyond visual matches. This enables users to pose more complex questions and swiftly gather key information.
Availability
The Circle to Search feature will be available from January 31 on select premium Android smartphones — the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the new Samsung Galaxy S24 series — in all languages and locations.
Upgraded multisearch results are launching this week in English in the U.S. for everyone. Outside the U.S., the feature is limited to previewers who have opted into the Search Generative Experience (SGE).