On February 19, 2025, Google stated that the ‘Circle to Search’ visual search feature can now be used on iPhone devices through the Chrome and Google apps.
With this update, iOS users can now search for information about objects on their screen without taking a screenshot or switching to another tab. Check out the full details below!
‘Circle to Search’ Feature Now Available on iOS
Previously exclusive to Android users, Google has now introduced an alternative to ‘Circle to Search’ for iOS devices.
However, instead of using the same name, Google allows users to perform searches using their own natural gestures.
While the functionality is similar to its Android counterpart, this feature is only accessible through the Google and Chrome apps on iOS. In contrast, on Android, it is directly integrated into the operating system.
How Screen Search Works with Google Lens on iPhone
iPhone users can now open the Google or Chrome app and tap the three-dot menu to start screen search using Google Lens.
With this feature, users can highlight, draw, or tap on parts of the screen they want to identify without taking a screenshot or switching tabs.
Once an object is selected, Google will display relevant information based on the identified item.
AI Overviews Enhancements in Google Lens
The ‘Circle to Search’ feature relies on Google Lens technology, which uses an online image database to identify objects.
Now, Google claims that its latest artificial intelligence (AI) model enables Lens to recognize more unusual or lesser-known objects.
For unique or rare searches, Google will display an AI Overview, a summary of information gathered from various online sources.
This summary does not require specific user input, allowing users to obtain relevant information immediately without entering additional keywords. If needed, users can further refine their search by adding follow-up questions.
When Will This Feature Be Released?
This new feature will roll out gradually to iOS users worldwide, particularly English-speaking users, starting February 19, 2025, following Google’s announcement of the update.
iPhone users with the Chrome and Google apps will soon experience a more interactive and intuitive screen search experience.
Meanwhile, AI Overview will first be available to English-speaking users in specific locations via the Google app on Android and iOS before expanding to Chrome on both desktop and mobile.
With this expansion, Google further strengthens its AI-powered visual search capabilities, providing users across platforms with a more practical and efficient search experience.
