Google introduced two features for search on their Android devices: Circle to Search and Multisearch. According to Google, Circle to Search is “a new way to search on your Android phone by circling, highlighting, scribbling or tapping what you’re curious about. Whatever of the actions that comes naturally to you.”
This seamless experience enables users to round up answers fast without the need to switch apps. For instance, imagine watching an outfit video and wanting to identify specific items. With a long press on the home button or navigation bar, you activate Circle to Search.
Users choose items with preferred gestures, like circling sunglasses or scribbling a bag, to quickly find similar, shoppable options from online retailers. It’s a fluid process that keeps you engaged without interrupting your current activity.
The company is set to launch Circle to Search on January 31st, initially on Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 series. It promises a more dynamic search experience for high end Android users.
Multisearch in Google Lens
Additionally, Google introduced Multisearch in Google Lens. This is an AI-powered feature that allows users to search with text and images simultaneously. Google promises capabilities of visual queries beyond what we are used to on Lens.
Consider a scenario where you stumble upon an unfamiliar board game at a yard sale. Without a box or instructions, questions arise: What is this game, and how is it played? Multisearch becomes a valuable tool in such situations, providing the ability to delve into more complex inquiries and quickly understand essential information.
Samsung’s Partnership with Google
In a strategic move, Samsung has chosen to partner with Google rather than Microsoft for its generative AI features on its flagship Galaxy S24 series. Notably, Samsung emerges as one of Google’s initial customers to test Gemini Ultra, with plans to integrate Gemini Nano as part of Android 14.
