Recent hidden code findings in beta versions of the Google app on Android suggest that Google could be expanding the reach of Circle to Search beyond its current limitations through Google Lens. Circle to Search was first introduced in the Galaxy S24 and Google has been gradually expanding access to Pixel smartphones with the goal of reaching 200 million users by the end of 2024. Google Lens could potentially play a key role in achieving this goal as it has been reported that the feature is being tested on iOS and Chrome for desktop under the Lens brand.
Clues found in recent beta versions of the Google app hint at the integration of Circle to Search into Google Lens. For example, a pop-up within Google Lens mentions searching the screen directly by holding down the home button, similar to how Circle to Search works. Additionally, the Translate button and Circle to Search animation are now handled by Google Lens rather than the Circle to Search feature itself. Internal codenames for the features within Google Lens suggest a potential merge of the two functionalities, with Circle to Search being called “Omnient” and the similar feature within Google Lens being called “Lensient.”
Currently, the Circle to Search feature within Google Lens is restricted to three-button navigation bars, possibly due to system updates required for Circle to Search on Pixel and Galaxy phones. Rolling out these updates to a larger number of devices could be challenging, so limiting the functionality to the more universal three-button navigation bar may be a practical solution for now. Another theory is that Google is using Google Lens as a way to quickly bring Circle to Search to a broader audience. While Circle to Search is currently limited to the latest flagship models, Google Lens is compatible with all devices running Android 6.0 and up, allowing for a wider user base to benefit from the feature.
While these discoveries are based on pre-release code and may not represent the final product, they strongly indicate that Google Lens could play a crucial role in expanding the availability of Circle to Search. This integration would enable more users to conveniently search for information directly from their screens, regardless of the device they are using, making the once exclusive feature more accessible to a broader audience.
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https://www.phonearena.com/news/google-lens-may-bring-circle-to-search-to-more-devices_id159898
