Article by: Manish Methani
Last Updated: February 11, 2024 at 1:10pm IST
In a constant pursuit to enhance user experience and redefine the capabilities of search engines, Google has announced two major updates set to revolutionize the way we search: Circle to Search and an AI-powered multi search experience.
Google introduces Circle to Search, a novel feature that enables users to search for anything on their Android phone screens without switching apps. This groundbreaking functionality allows users to select images, text, or videos through simple gestures like circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping.
Imagine spotting a pair of adorable dog goggles while texting friends or browsing social media. Instead of interrupting your current activity, you can now search for information on the spot by using the Circle to Search feature. This innovative search method is set to launch globally on select premium Android smartphones, including the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the new Samsung Galaxy S24 series, starting January 31.
Building on the success of multisearch in Lens introduced in 2022, Google is taking it a step further with the integration of generative AI. Users can now point their cameras, upload photos, or take screenshots and ask questions through the Google app to receive multi search results with AI-powered insights.
This feature is not limited to visual matches but extends to more complex and nuanced questions. For instance, if you stumble upon an unfamiliar board game at a yard sale, take a picture, ask, "How do you play this?" and receive an AI-powered overview consolidating relevant information from across the web.
The AI-powered overviews on multi search results are launching this week in English in the U.S., available for everyone without the need for enrollment in Search Labs. For international users who opted into Search Generative Experience (SGE), the new experience can be previewed in the Google app.
Google acknowledges that these updates are just the beginning of what's possible with generative AI. The company has been experimenting with generative AI in Search Labs, receiving valuable feedback from early adopters. Moving forward, Google aims to make AI helpful for a broader audience by introducing successful experiments into Search more widely.
As technology continues to evolve, Google invites users to join Search Labs and opt into the Search Generative Experience experiment to stay at the forefront of the latest capabilities and actively contribute to shaping the future of Search.
In conclusion, these groundbreaking updates mark a significant leap forward in making search more natural, intuitive, and accessible, reflecting Google's commitment to continuous innovation and improvement in the digital landscape.
P.S: You can refer to the official Google Blog Post here