Google Pixel8 series users report the Circle to search function has now been added to their phones, offering access to a slick AI-powered search feature.
According to users on the Pixel, subreddit their phones now receive the new search feature, which was previously exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. The launch is said to take place on January 31st and the rollout appears to be still ongoing. That’s why some Pixel 8 users are pointing out that they still don’t have the update. It appears no specific region has been left out and the feature has been spotted on both the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pixel 8 Pro models.
Circle to Search was announced on Milky Way galaxy unpacked 2024for the launch of the Samsung S24 series and added to the The Galaxy S24’s comprehensive suite of AI improvements.
What does it do?
Circle to Search uses AI to search specific highlighted items on the screen without switching apps by simply circling them, which then generates Google search results.
This offers a seamless approach compared to the previous method of taking a screenshot, leaving the app, and then searching for that image.
It can also be used to search specific text so you don’t have to type it into a search bar or even copy it so you can highlight messages, and if you use Circle to Search you’ll see relevant search results.
How do I use Circle to search?
To use the feature, press and hold the Home button or navigation bar on a compatible phone to activate Circle to Search. Then draw a circle around the object you want to locate.
For example, you can circle a shirt worn by someone on social media, and a Google search results page will appear at the bottom of the screen with the highlighted product and other similar options.
You can even use the Circle to search for multiple objects at once, so if you like the hat, shirt and shoes, you can circle them all and they will appear on the subsequent results page.
Circle to search, AI and Android
At this time it is unclear whether Circle to Search will roll out to other devices, with Google stating that it will select “premium Android smartphones – the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and the new Samsung Galaxy S24 series”, which is not looks promising. other Android devices.
However, there is an alternative: if Circle to Search isn’t coming to your device, you may already have a similar feature on your smartphone.
If Google Assistant is enabled, you can tap the “Search my screen” feature. This will open Google Lens so you can highlight the specific area you want and Google Search will give you results on the screen without closing the app. While it’s not as user-friendly or flashy as Circle to Search, it does a similar job, allowing us non-Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 users to do almost the same thing, saving you from having to pay for that fancy new phone, at least for the time being.