Google brings 'circle to search'-like feature to iPhone users

Google on Wednesday rolled out an update for iOS that lets users search what’s on their screen with a simple gesture. The new feature, available in both the Google Chrome and Google Search apps, is similar to Android’s built-in “Circle to Search” function.

At launch, iPhone users can initiate a visual search via Google Lens by drawing, highlighting, or tapping on elements on their screen. For example, if you’re reading an article and come across an image of an art piece, you can circle the image to quickly learn more about it. Likewise, if a video catches your eye, you can use Lens to find similar items.

The idea behind the update is to allow users to perform visual searches directly while browsing without having to take a screenshot or open a new tab. After highlighting or tapping, users are presented with visual matches and related results. They can then tap “Add to your search” to refine their query by color, brand, or other details, or ask follow-up questions for more information.

To access the new functionality, users should open the three-dot menu in either the Chrome or Google app and select “Search Screen with Google Lens.” In the coming months, Google plans to introduce a dedicated Lens icon in the address bar for easier access.

In addition to the visual search update, Google announced an expansion of AI Overviews. Previously, Lens searches that combined images and text featured AI Overviews at the top of the results page. Now, users will begin to see these overviews even when no additional text or questions are added to their search. For instance, snapping a picture of a car will prompt an AI Overview that provides a quick snapshot of details and links to further resources.

The update is rolling out globally on iOS this week, with plans to extend the feature to Chrome on both desktop and mobile devices soon.

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