At Samsung Unpacked 2025, Google announced a significant update to its Circle to Search feature, which allows users to search from anywhere on their phone using gestures like circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping. The latest enhancement brings AI Overviews to more types of visual results, making it easier for users to find information and take action.
The AI Overviews feature, initially launched last year, provided users with a snapshot of relevant information when they searched using both images and text. With this update, users will start seeing AI Overviews without needing to add additional text or questions to their searches. This means that users can simply circle an object, and Google will provide a concise overview of the item, along with links to learn more.
For instance, if a user is at a museum and sees an interesting piece of art, they can circle it to get an AI-driven snapshot of helpful information about the piece, including links to learn more about it from the web. This update expands the capabilities of Circle to Search, making it a more powerful tool for users to quickly find information and take action.
In addition to the AI Overviews update, Google is also making it easier for users to get things done on their phones. Circle to Search will now recognize numbers, email addresses, and URLs on the screen, allowing users to hold down the home button, circle or tap on the information, and get an action chip to engage with it. This feature is particularly useful for tasks like calling a phone number or sending an email.
The new functionality is rolling out to all Android devices where AI Overviews are available, ensuring that a wide range of users can take advantage of these enhancements. This update demonstrates Google's continued commitment to improving the search experience and making it easier for users to find information and take action.
The implications of this update are significant, as it has the potential to revolutionize the way users interact with their devices. By providing users with quick access to relevant information and actionable data, Google is streamlining the search process and making it more efficient. As AI technology continues to advance, it will be interesting to see how Google further develops Circle to Search and other features to improve the user experience.
In conclusion, Google's update to Circle to Search is a significant step forward in the development of AI-driven search capabilities. With its expanded AI Overviews and actionable information features, Circle to Search is poised to become an indispensable tool for users. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how Google and other companies push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of search and AI.