Google has a flurry of announcements today and that includes updates to its Circle to Search tool, now available on over 300 million Android devices. The feature lets users tap, highlight, or circle anything on their screen to instantly search for more information—without needing to switch apps. It’s just too easy when using this feature.
Starting today, Circle to Search is getting a major upgrade with the addition of AI Mode, a smarter search tool powered by Google’s advanced Gemini AI. When users activate Circle to Search and highlight something on their screen, they may see an AI Overview—a summary of useful info from around the web. From there, users can tap “dive deeper with AI Mode” to ask follow-up questions and explore related content more thoroughly.
AI Mode is also being added to Google Lens, so the feature will work in both the Google app on Android and iOS. Right now, AI Mode is available only in the U.S. and India. Sorry, Canada–you’re still left waiting here.
Another new perk: gaming help. This was spotted back in January and now it’s true. While playing a mobile game, users can activate Circle to Search to get tips, identify characters, or find strategies—all without pausing the game. Just press and hold the home button, then tap or circle part of the screen. Google will show a quick AI Overview and may even include helpful video links. Now that’s pretty cool. If only we had this AI tech for our GameBoy.
Google is also making AI Overviews better overall. Search results now include more visuals and simpler summaries, making it easier to understand complex topics at a glance.
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