Google Pixel 8 series users are reporting that the Circle to Search function has been introduced to their phones, providing access to a slick AI-powered search functionality.
\According to users on the Pixel subreddit, their phones have begun to receive the new search capability, which was previously restricted to the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. It was supposed to go live on January 31, but the distribution still appears to be ongoing, which is why some Pixel 8 customers are complaining that they haven’t received the update yet. It appears that no location has been left out, as the functionality has been seen on both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro variants.
Circle to Search was unveiled during Galaxy Unpacked 2024, for the launch of the Samsung S24 series and expanded the Galaxy S24’s wide array of AI features.
What does it do?
Circle to Search uses artificial intelligence to search for certain highlighted items on the screen without switching apps by just circling them, resulting in Google search results.
This is a more seamless way than the traditional method of capturing a screenshot, leaving the program, and then searching for that image.
It can also be used to search specific text, sparing you from having to type it into a search bar or copy it, allowing you to highlight messages, and Circle to Search should return appropriate search results.
How do I use Circle to Search?
To use the feature, hold down the home button or navigation bar on a compatible phone to activate Circle Search. Next, draw a circle around the object you wish to search up.
For example, you may circle a shirt worn by someone on social media, and a Google search results page will appear at the bottom of the screen, displaying the highlighted goods and other similar-looking possibilities.
You may also use the Circle to Search on multiple objects at once, so if you like the hat, shirt, and shoes, circle them all and they will display on the next results page.
Circle to Search with AI and Android
At the moment, it’s unclear whether Circle to Search will be available on any other devices, with Google claiming that it’s coming to “select premium Android smartphones — the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the new Samsung Galaxy S24 series,” which doesn’t appear encouraging for other Android devices.
However, there is an alternative: if Circle to Search does not come to your device, your smartphone may already feature a comparable function.
If Google Assistant is enabled, you can use the “Search My Screen” capability to open Google Lens and highlight the precise region you desire, and Google Search will return results on the screen without exiting the app. Although it’s not quite as user-friendly or flashy as Circle to Search It does a fairly similar job, allowing non-Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 users to do virtually the same thing while saving you money on that beautiful new phone, at least for the time being.
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