Google has unveiled a new search method called “Circle to Search” for Android phones. This feature allows users to initiate searches from anywhere on their phone by using gestures like circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping. It is designed to provide a more natural and convenient way to engage with Google Search whenever a question arises during various activities such as watching videos, browsing social apps, or messaging friends.
When it comes to visual content, users can circle or scribble across an item to search for related items or information without switching between different apps. The scribble gesture can be used on both images and words, expanding the search possibilities.
The search results displayed will vary depending on the user’s query and the Google Labs products they have opted into. Simple text searches will show traditional search results, while queries combining images and text will utilize generative AI in a feature called “multisearch.” Additionally, users participating in Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) experiment will receive AI-powered answers for SGE queries.
However, this feature arrives at a time when Google Search faces challenges, such as the dominance of SEO-optimized pages and the rise of generative AI chatbots as alternatives to traditional searches. By integrating search capabilities deeply within the Android phone platform, Google aims to strengthen its Search business and adapt to changing user behaviors.
The “Circle to Search” feature will launch on January 31, initially on the new Galaxy S24 Series smartphones and premium Android devices like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. It will be available in all languages and locations where these phones are sold, with Google planning to expand support to more Android smartphones over time.
