Google’s Circle to Search has become a beloved feature on Android for many because of its intuitive way to look up objects in images. In recent months, the tool has become more widespread and even inspired copycats on iOS. Now there’s new evidence to suggest that Circle to Search will soon see another substantial update that will introduce new support for audio input and improve the user experience on the Pixel Tablet.
Starting with the former, Android Authority delved into a recent beta version of the Google app, where they discovered strings of code pointing to an “Audio Search Button.” The publication managed to get the button to appear in the feature’s UI. It is shaped like a circle with a musical note icon on it. Pressing the button did nothing, but according to the report it lacks all functionality.
However, they did speculate about what it might do. Their best guess is that the audio search can “identify sounds and music” on a smartphone. It can also use the audio to provide additional context for searches. The button appears to sit as a separate entity to the right of the microphone icon on the Google search bar.
Since we’re still in the early stages, it’s unknown if Google will ever launch the feature in some form. It’s entirely possible that the whole thing will be demolished.
Tablet improvements
The second possible update will allow users to activate Circle to Search on the Pixel Tablet by simply “pressing and holding the action key.” If you’re not familiar, the action key takes the form of a three-dot icon surrounding a magnifying glass in the permanent taskbar. Doing so will bring up Circle to Search, as evident by the iridescent colors on the screen. From there you can use the tool as normal.
Such a feature already exists on the Pixel Tablet, as it appears by pressing the gray line in the temporary taskbar. If Android Authority explains in its reportthe device has two versions of the taskbar and users can choose which style they prefer. But only the temporary taskbar provides quick access to Circle to Search, so people who prefer the permanent option are out of luck. This update, if released, could change everything as it would allow every user to enjoy the same experience.
Unlike the audio feature from earlier, it looks like you can try out Circle to Search for yourself on a Pixel Tablet by installing the third Android 15 beta. First, users must register their device Google’s Android beta for Pixel program and then download the patch. Instructions on how to do this can be found on the company’s website. They also recommend backing up your data before signing up to ensure nothing important is lost.
The arrival of the third Android 15 beta comes about a month after the launch of the second and brings with it an important new feature in the form of private space. It allows users to hide and lock sensitive apps, and you can try it if you join the beta program.