Highlights
- Google Lens icon now available in Chrome’s address bar
- Feature allows users to highlight and search anything on the screen
- Works on Chromebooks, Windows, and Mac with Chrome browser
- Search results appear in a side panel for uninterrupted browsing
Google’s “Circle to Search” feature, which lets you look up anything on your screen by highlighting it, is spreading its wings.
First seen on Samsung’s Galaxy S24 phones, it’s now popping up on more gadgets, including some iPhones.
But the big news is that it’s now landing on desktop computers too.
New Lens Icon in Chrome
If you’re using a Chromebook or the Chrome browser, you might spot a new Google Lens icon in the address bar, right next to where you bookmark pages.
When you click it, you’ll see a message saying “Select anything to search with Google Lens” and a shimmery effect.
Your mouse pointer will turn into a little magnifying glass with crosshairs.
You can then drag to select what you want to search for, and tweak the selection if needed.
Your search results will show up in a handy side panel, so you don’t have to leave the page you’re on.
How It Works on Different Devices
On Chromebooks, the Lens icon is right there in the address bar.
For Windows and Mac users, you’ll find a “Search with Google Lens” option in the menu (the three dots in the top right).
You can even pin it to your toolbar for easy access.
This new feature is being tested in the beta versions of ChromeOS and Chrome.
It’s likely to roll out to everyone soon.
What It Means for Users
This tool is dead handy.
Say you’re watching a video and spot something interesting – just highlight it, and Google Lens will tell you all about it without interrupting your viewing.
It works for anything on your screen, from slides in a live stream to images on a webpage.
The best bit?
You can keep browsing while you explore the new info you’ve found.
It’s a real time-saver, cutting down on endless searching and scrolling through results.
Google’s move to bring Circle to Search to more devices shows they’re keen on making searching easier for everyone, no matter their gadget.
It’s a smart way to help people find what they need quickly and easily, whether they’re on their phone or sat at their desktop.
FAQs
What is Google’s “Circle to Search” feature?
“Circle to Search” is a Google Lens feature that lets you highlight and search for anything on your screen by selecting it with your mouse or touch.
Which devices support the “Circle to Search” feature?
Initially seen on Samsung Galaxy S24 phones, the feature is now available on Chromebooks, some iPhones, and is being tested on Windows and Mac through the Chrome browser.
How do I use the “Circle to Search” feature in Chrome?
In the Chrome browser, click the new Google Lens icon in the address bar or select “Search with Google Lens” from the menu.
Highlight the area you want to search, and results will appear in a side panel.
What are the benefits of using “Circle to Search”?
This feature allows for quick and easy searches without leaving the current webpage.
It enhances productivity by providing relevant information in a side panel, making it a great tool for multitasking.
When will “Circle to Search” be available to all users?
The feature is currently being tested in the beta versions of ChromeOS and Chrome and is expected to roll out to all users soon.
Also Read: Google’s Circle to Search: The Next Evolution For Searching Online
Also Read: Google Expands Circle to Search Feature to More Devices; Samsung Says it is the Most Used Galaxy AI Feature