Google is rolling out a new feature for iPhone users this Wednesday, allowing them to quickly search what’s on their screen through simple gestures within the Google Chrome and Google Search apps. This update brings functionality similar to Android’s “Circle to Search” feature, enabling users to easily search by tapping, highlighting, or drawing on any content displayed.
The feature leverages Google Lens, allowing users to visually search objects, images, or text they come across. For example, if you’re reading an article and spot a piece of artwork, you can circle or tap the image to discover more details about it. Similarly, if you spot a product or item in a video, you can use the feature to find similar items or gather more information.
This new tool aims to streamline the process of performing visual searches while browsing. Users no longer need to take screenshots or open new tabs to explore items they find interesting. It also presents an additional method to initiate a traditional web search, a move that helps Google remain competitive as AI technologies continue to advance and transform search behaviours.
Once users highlight or tap something on their screen, Google Lens will display visual matches and related results. To further refine the search, users can tap on options like “Add to your search,” allowing them to filter results by colour, brand, or other characteristics. Additionally, users can ask follow-up questions to gain deeper insights into the content they’re exploring.
To access the new feature, iPhone users need to open the three-dot menu in the Chrome or Google Search app and select “Search Screen with Google Lens.” In the future, the feature will also be available through a new Lens icon in the address bar, with a wider rollout planned in the coming months.
The update will be available globally to iOS users this week.
In tandem with this update, Google has also expanded its AI Overviews feature. AI Overviews, which provide a snapshot of key information at the top of search results, are now being extended to more Google Lens searches. Previously, this feature appeared only in searches that included both images and text, but with the new update, users will now see AI Overviews automatically, even without entering extra text or queries.
For example, if you spot an interesting car and snap a picture, you’ll receive an AI Overview, providing a quick summary and relevant links to further details about the vehicle.
This feature is rolling out this week for English-language users in regions where AI Overviews are available. Initially, it will be accessible on the Google app for Android and iOS, with plans to expand to Chrome on desktop and mobile devices soon.
Main Image: CNET
