Google’s Circle to Search feature is getting significant improvements, making it even easier and more powerful to use.
Coming at the Galaxy Unpacked event in July 2024, these updates are designed to harness the powerful capabilities of the new Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6.
But it won’t be limited to Samsung’s foldables alone. Users of the recent Pixel phones and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series also have something to look forward to.
Here are three exciting ways Circle to Search is evolving.
On-screen translations
One of the notable new features of Circle to Search is its ability to provide instant on-screen translations.
This feature is great for travelers or anyone who encounters foreign languages while traveling. Whether you’re browsing a restaurant menu or reading an article in another language, you can now translate the text on your screen by simply circling it.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
The on-screen translation feature is available on a range of Android devices, including Pixel 7 and later, as well as the Galaxy S24 series, and is rolling out to more devices, including foldables and tablets.
To learn more about this feature, read our guide on using Circle to search on your phone.
Solving Symbolic Math Problems
Circle to Search also expands its educational capabilities with the addition of symbolic math problem solving.
This upgrade is especially beneficial for students. Instead of simply providing the answer, Circle to Search now offers step-by-step problem-solving techniques.
This feature aims to help users understand the underlying principles and methods, thereby helping to improve their abilities over time.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Users can access this feature by triggering Circle to Search and entering their symbolic math problems.
The AI will then break down the problem into manageable steps, providing detailed explanations for each step.
Scan QR codes and barcodes
In the near future, Circle to Search will also support scanning QR codes and barcodes directly from your screen.
This upcoming feature will simplify tasks like checking product information, accessing websites, and checking tickets or promotions.
Users will no longer need a separate scanning app; instead, they can use Circle to Search to scan codes effortlessly.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
This feature will be especially useful for those who often use QR codes and barcodes, whether for shopping, attending events or accessing digital information.
Integrating this feature into Circle to Search aligns with Google’s vision to create a more intuitive and efficient user experience on Android devices.
While this feature isn’t available yet, it’s available on your phone through other methods. Follow our guide on how to scan codes with your smartphone to learn more.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
The announcement of these updates came alongside Google’s unveiling of new features for Wear OS 5 at the recent Galaxy Unpacked event.
The latest Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 will be the first devices to feature these enhanced Circle to Search features as part of Samsung’s partnership with Google.
However, they will likely be a staple of the Pixel 9 series when it launches in August.
