Google introduced a new search tool: Circle (or highlight or scribble) to Search. Currently only available on certain Android smartphones.
Using a finger to circle, highlight, scribble or even tap, a user can quickly identify items in a photo or video without needing to switch over to their mobile internet browser.
Google’s introduction of “Circle to Search” in a recent blog post marks a significant leap in integrating search capabilities seamlessly into the user experience. For example, when watching a video on social media, a viewer might spot a stylish outfit but lacks information about the brands. Previously, this would have required exiting the app to conduct a separate search. However, with “Circle to Search,” identifying and even purchasing these items becomes effortless. Users can activate the feature with a long press on the home button or navigation bar and use gestures like circling or scribbling to highlight items of interest, connecting them to a wide array of shoppable options online.
Google’s New Circle to Search: A Window to the World’s Information
Beyond fashion, “Circle to Search” enhances learning and exploration. Powered by AI, it combines text and image searches, enabling users to delve deeper into subjects by collating information from across the web. This capability extends to understanding trending topics.
With this new tool, you will be able to do more than you can imagine. For example, you’re watching a video featuring a beautiful travel destination or a popular celebrity hangout spot. With “Circle to Search,” you can circle some sight in the video to instantly find out where it is. This feature makes it easier for travel enthusiasts to discover new destinations or fans to keep up with their favorite celebrities’ whereabouts.
Tracking Celebrity Locations
For instance, if a user sees a celebrity in a picturesque location on a social media platform, they can activate “Circle to Search” to circle the backdrop or notable landmarks. This action triggers Google’s search engine to identify the location, providing details about the place, its significance, and even directions. It’s a game-changer for fans who want to follow in the footsteps of their idols or simply discover new and exciting locations.
Launching on January 31, “Circle to Search” will initially be available on select Android devices, including the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. Google promises a wide language and location availability, ensuring that a vast user base can benefit from this groundbreaking tool.
This feature is more than just a convenience; it represents a shift in how we interact with the digital world, seamlessly blending our virtual and physical experiences. With “Circle to Search” the barrier between curiosity and knowledge becomes thinner, making the vast resources of the internet more accessible than ever.
