Google Circle to Search Feature Now Available on iOS—But With Limitations

Google’s popular Circle to Search feature, which was first introduced to Android users, is now making its way to iOS. This move aims to enhance the search experience, but there are some notable differences in how it functions on Apple devices.

What is Google Circle to Search?

The Circle to Search feature allows users to search for anything on their screen by simply circling or scribbling over it. On Android, this functionality is easy and integrated with the home navigation bar. By long-pressing the home bar, users can immediately activate the feature, making it quick and seamless.

A More Complex Process on iOS

Unlike the Android version, the feature on iOS is somewhat less efficient. Google has integrated Circle to Search into its Google and Chrome apps. To use it, iOS users must follow a multi-step process:

1. Open the app and tap the three-dot menu.
2. Select “Search this Screen” from the options.
3. Then, users can circle or scribble on the screen to perform the search.

While this method is still useful, it lacks the fluidity Android users enjoy, where the feature is available with a simple tap of the home bar.

Why the Difference?

The integration of Circle to Search on iOS is somewhat limited due to how Apple structures its system. Instead of being a core feature of the device, Google has added it as part of its Google Lens functionality within the Google and Chrome apps. As a result, iOS users won’t get the same smooth experience that Android users do.

New AI Overviews for Google Lens

In addition to the rollout of Circle to Search, Google is also enhancing its Lens feature with AI-generated overviews. When you search with Google Lens, the app now offers an AI-powered summary related to your search results. This feature aims to provide more context and insights, making it easier to digest information quickly.

Global Rollout Underway

Currently, the update is being rolled out to users worldwide on both the Google and Chrome apps for iOS. While not as seamless as on Android, this new addition marks another step in bringing more powerful search features to mobile devices.

What Does This Mean for iOS Users?

If you’re an iPhone user, you might appreciate the new search functionality, even if it’s not as instant as on Android. The multiple steps involved are a minor inconvenience, but the AI Overviews for Google Lens offer a useful new layer of detail to enhance your searches.

As Google continues to innovate, we can expect further updates and improvements to this feature, making mobile searches even more intuitive and efficient in the future.

For now, if you’re using the Google or Chrome apps on iOS, give Circle to Search a try and see how it works for you!