Google is aiming to double the reach of Circle to Search from 100 million to 200 million users by 2024, with a focus on leveraging Google Lens to achieve this goal. The feature has been enabled for searching within Google Lens, triggering a search on any screen. The three-button navigation bar currently limits this functionality, but future versions may expand it.
Circle to Search was a standout feature on the Galaxy S24 series, providing quick and easy search access from the phone screen. Google is intent on reaching 200 million users by 2024, potentially utilizing Google Lens to expand functionality to more devices. Recent beta versions of the Google app hint at Google Lens as a vehicle for bringing Circle to Search to the next 100 million users.
APK Teardown reveals upcoming features based on code, with Google Lens being identified as a potential search circle alternative. The long-press home button feature activates the search function, similar to Circle to Search, and may override the Google Assistant long-press. Google Lens can enable Circle to Search-like features on any screen, evident in recent beta versions of the Google app.
Code names for Circle to Search (“Omnient”) and the Lens equivalent (“Lensient”) have been discovered within Google’s internal files. The feature is currently limited to three-button navigation bars, with the possibility of an OTA update requirement for broader compatibility. This may lead to Circle to Search-like functionality being implemented through Google Lens and restricted to a universal three-button navigation bar.
As the feature is still in development, more updates on the implementation of Circle to Search-like features in Google Lens are expected. Readers are encouraged to contact the news team at news@androidauthority.com with advice or information, with the option to remain anonymous or receive credit for their insight.
Article Source
https://www.androidauthority.com/google-lens-circle-to-search-alternative-apk-teardown-3455214/