La Technological evolution in the Android ecosystem is advancing at great speed y Circle to Search has established itself as one of the most anticipated and revolutionary features developed by Google in recent times. This tool, which makes use of Artificial IntelligenceCircle to Search is redefining the way users interact with their devices, allowing them to search and retrieve information without leaving the app they're using. If you're wondering if your phone is compatible, how to activate the feature, or which current and future models support Circle to Search, here's the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide.
What is Google Circle to Search?
Circle to Search It is an advanced form of visual and intelligent search that arises from the collaboration between Google and Samsung. Its objective is to offer the user the possibility of Search for any text, image, or content on your screen by simply circling it with your finger, without having to leave the current app. This eliminates traditional intermediate steps, such as copying and pasting information, taking screenshots, or constantly switching apps.
Plus, Circle to Search isn't limited to just one type of content: you can circle objects in photos, snippets of text, products in online stores, characters in videos, or places that spark your curiosity. The feature uses the Artificial Intelligence from Google both to recognize what you select and to interpret the context and return the most relevant results to you in an overlay pop-up window.
One of the key points and differentiators of Circle to Search is its universal compatibility with almost any applicationWhether you're browsing social media like Instagram, watching a video on YouTube, reading an article in your browser, or using messaging apps, you can activate the feature and find information about any item visible on your device's screen.
Imagine seeing an item of clothing you like in a photo, an unfamiliar landmark in a video, or a word in another language: with Circle to Search, you can circle the area of interest and instantly access details, shopping, translations, and more—all without losing track of what you were doing.
How Circle to Search works step by step
The way Circle to Search works is intuitive, fast and efficientIt relies on gestures and deep integration with Android and Google Search. Here's how to activate it and take advantage of all its capabilities:
- Gesture activation: Depending on your device settings, you can launch Circle to Search by holding down the start button in button navigation mode, or the navigation bar in gesture mode. You can configure this option in “Settings” by searching for “Round to search.”
- Flexible selection: Once the feature is activated, the screen dims slightly and the Google search bar appears. The user can Draw a circle, highlight, tap, or scribble directly on the item you want to identify. You can also zoom with two fingers for precise selection.
- Contextual search: When you release your finger, Google processes the selection and displays a floating window at the bottom of the screen with related results: images, links, descriptions, prices, locations, translations, and even the ability to ask additional questions about the item.
- Stay in the appAll of this happens without switching apps, allowing you to stay focused on the original context and easily return to the task at hand when you're done with your search. Simply swipe down the results window or tap the "X" to return to the previous view.
- Answers with AI and mixed search: You can complement your search by adding text to the corresponding bar, allowing for mixed image and text searches, and even obtaining responses generated by artificial intelligence that contextualize the result based on the selected element.
On supported devices, Circle to Search can even summarize complex information, detect image authenticity (e.g., if a photo has been altered), scan QR codes, and moreIf you find text in another language, you can instantly translate the entire screen using the translation button. This feature makes Circle to Search one of Google's most versatile and integrated mobile AI tools.
Additional and advanced features of Circle to Search
Over time, Google has been incorporating New features to Circle to Search that enrich the user experience and expand the possible uses of this feature:
- Song and audio identification: By tapping the musical note icon in the search bar, the app can identify songs playing around the user or on the device itself, displaying the title, artist, and even the platforms where they are played.
- Instant translation: Within the results, you can instantly translate any highlighted text into your preferred language without leaving the app you're currently using.
- Scanning QR and barcodes: Circle to Search also allows you to scan these codes directly on screen to access links or relevant information.
- Save and share partial screenshotsYou can save only the selection you make through Circle to Search, storing it directly in Google Photos or in the saved images folder associated with your account. This is useful for sharing snippets of information, visual details, products, or interesting places.
- Text-Aloud ReaderBy highlighting a text, you can have Google's text-to-speech engine read it aloud, which is especially useful for people with visual impairments or users who prefer auditory interaction.
- Image verification: The feature is able to automatically detect whether an image is authentic or has been modified, helping to combat misinformation and verify the authenticity of images on the internet.
- Clipping and visual sharingGoogle is working on allowing users to crop selected images or video clips and share them through any other app installed on their phone.
With all these improvements, Circle to Search aims to become an indispensable tool in the Android world, adapting to both advanced users and those looking for quick and easy solutions.
All Android phones compatible with Google Circle to Search
The initial distribution of Circle to Search began on Google and Samsung devices, but More and more manufacturers and models are joining the compatibility list.Here's an updated and comprehensive list, segmented by brand, of the devices on which you can enjoy the feature:
- Google Pixel:
- Pixel 6a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 7a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 8a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablets
- Samsung Galaxy:
- Galaxy S21 FE, S21, S21+, S21 Ultra
- Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 FE, S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
- Galaxy S24 FE, S24, S24+, S24 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Flip 3, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 5, Z Flip 6
- Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6
- Galaxy A34, A35, A54, A55 (progressive compatibility)
- Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, S8 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+
- Galaxy S9 FE, S9 FE+, S9, S9+, S9 Ultra, S10+, S10 Ultra
- Xiaomi:
- Xiaomi 14T, Xiaomi 14T Pro, Xiaomi MIX Flip
- Honor:
- Honor 200, Honor 200 Pro, Honor Magic V3
- OnePlus:
- OnePlus 12
- Motorola:
- Motorola Edge 50 Ultra, Razr 50, Razr 50 Ultra
- Lenovo:
- Lenovo Idea Tab Pro
- Tecno:
- Tecno Phantom V Flip 2, V Fold 2
It is important to mention that Circle to Search compatibility depends on both the android version as the device hardwareGoogle has announced its intention to expand availability to hundreds of millions of Android devices, so new models from different brands are being added regularly.
Is it available on tablets and foldable devices?
Yes, Circle to Search has also expanded to Android tablets and foldable devices, especially within the Google and Samsung ecosystems. The Pixel Tablet, Galaxy Tab S8 and S9 FE models, and the latest versions of the foldable Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip are confirmed as compatible. This marks a significant difference from traditional search tools, as the feature adapts to large or foldable screens, allowing you to highlight text or images using your finger or the S Pen.
How to enable and set up Circle to Search on Android
Access to Circle to Search depends on both your device model and operating system configuration. Here are the general steps to enable it:
- basic requirements: Have a compatible device and the updated Google app (included as standard on most recent Android devices).
- Navigation mode: You must use gesture navigation or the classic three-button mode. You can change this in Settings > System > Gestures or by searching directly for "navigation."
- Set the Google app as your default digital assistant: Go to Settings > Apps > Digital Assistant App and select “Google.” Turn on “Use screenshot.”
- Activation in the settings panelOn some devices like Xiaomi, you can create a shortcut to Circle to Search in the Quick Settings panel, allowing you to launch the feature conveniently without any additional gestures.
- CHECKOUT: Test by holding down the home button or navigation bar to see if the Google floating search bar appears. If not, make sure the feature is enabled in Settings or update the Google app.
On devices from brands like Xiaomi, which currently only integrate Circle to Search in the most recent models, there is the possibility of install the feature manually via a trusted APK file, although it's always preferable to wait for the official update to ensure maximum system integration and security.
Main uses and advantages of Circle to Search
Circle to Search goes far beyond simple image search. Between Its most notable uses are:
- Search for information about products, places, characters or scenes in photos, videos, social networks or websites without switching applications.
- Translate content or entire pages instantly by tapping the translation button.
- Identify songs and obtain information about them Instantly.
- Scan QR or barcodes on screen during purchases or inquiries.
- Save partial screenshots of selected items to easily share them with other users or applications.
- Access answers with artificial intelligence that interpret the context of the selected content and suggest additional actions or expanded information.
- Check the authenticity of images, detect if they are modified or manipulated.
- Clipping and visual sharingGoogle is working on allowing users to crop selected images or video clips and share them through any other app installed on their phone.
This versatility makes Circle to Search one of the most complete and efficient features within the current Android ecosystem.
Limitations and Considerations of Circle to Search
While Circle to Search represents a quantum leap in the search experience, there are some limitations to take into account:
- Not available in all applications: Banking apps or apps with sensitive content may disable this feature for privacy and security reasons.
- Requires internet connection to work since the search is performed through Google servers.
- Compatibility depends on hardware and the Android version, so there are still models, especially older or entry-level ones, that do not support it.
- It does not completely replace Google Lens, although both functions are increasingly integrated.
If the option doesn't appear on your compatible phone, make sure you have the latest version of Android and the Google app, as well as the appropriate permission settings. If you see an error like "Surround to search is unavailable," check your digital assistant settings and privacy options.
Circle to Search FAQs
- Will Circle to Search come to more devices? Yes, Google has an active expansion plan to bring this feature to more devices and brands, including phones, tablets, and foldables.
- Can it be installed on unofficial models? In some cases, it's possible to use third-party APKs, but it's not recommended until it's officially released to ensure full compatibility and security.
- Will it replace Google Lens? For now, they coexist as complementary features, but Circle to Search aims to merge the best of Lens with new AI and contextual search capabilities.
- Can it be used on iPhone? For now, it's restricted to Android, although similar searches can be performed on iOS using Google Lens through the Google app by creating shortcuts in the system, albeit without the direct interaction of circling elements on the screen.
- How can I know if my phone is compatible? Check the list above and see if you can enable "Surround to search" in Settings. Update your operating system and the Google app if necessary.
Circle to Search is consolidating as a key advance in the integration of artificial intelligence into Android mobiles. With a intuitive interface and a variety of advanced features, makes searching and discovering information easier, faster, and more efficient. If your phone is compatible, it's definitely worth activating and taking full advantage of its potential, as it promises to continue adding new features that will further transform the Android user experience.