Google is introducing “Search Screen with Google Lens” to Chrome and the Google app on iOS, accessible via the three-dot menu. This feature allows users to conduct visual searches by drawing, highlighting, or tapping, but is restricted to these two apps, as Apple’s policies prevent system-wide integration. It enables quick visual searches while browsing in Chrome without needing to take screenshots or switch tabs. A new Google Lens icon in the Chrome address bar will provide faster access in the coming months. Additionally, Google Lens will feature AI Overviews to help users understand objects and find relevant online resources.
Google is introducing Circle to Search for Chrome and the Google app on iOS, although it’s not using that name for reasons unknown. Instead, it’s referred to as “Search Screen with Google Lens”.
This feature will be available in the three-dot menu within both Chrome for iOS and the Google app for iOS. Once selected, users can employ “any gesture that feels natural”. This can include actions like “drawing, highlighting, or tapping”.
The main limitation here, distinguishing it from Android’s Circle to Search, is that it is restricted to Chrome and the Google app. This system cannot be used universally on iOS, of course, as Apple would never permit such a feature.
You can utilize this functionality “to swiftly conduct a visual search while browsing”, according to Google, “without needing to take a screenshot or open a new tab”. Therefore, it’s particularly beneficial in Chrome, where the web is easily accessible.
“In the coming months”, a new Google Lens icon will appear in the address bar of Chrome, enabling quicker access to the same feature.
The update that activates Search Screen with Google Lens is currently being rolled out this week and will be available worldwide in Chrome for iOS and the Google app for iOS.
Additionally, Google is announcing that Google Lens will feature AI Overviews similar to Google Search for queries related to object identification. These AI Overviews will “assist you in quickly understanding what you’re viewing” and will provide links to “useful resources online”.
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