Circle to Search may soon work even when message bubbles are expanded, once Google’s Android 15 update rolls out to users, according to a report. Currently, Google’s visual search tool powered by artificial intelligence (AI) stops working as soon as a message bubble appears on the screen. However, this function may change soon. This development comes after it was announced that Google is expanding its Circle to Search feature to more devices, ending its exclusivity on Samsung and Google devices.
Expanding the search circle on message bubbles
Android Authority reports that Google’s artificial intelligence-powered Circle to Search feature could soon work even when message bubbles appear in floating windows. Currently, the visual search tool overlay is not displayed on the screen if the chat bubble is opened. Circle to Search is invoked by long-pressing the home button or the navigation bar — neither of which can be accessed when message bubbles are opened.
After studying the Android 15 source code, the publication found references to activate Circle to Search when message bubbles are opened. The feature allows users to highlight an area on the screen by hovering around it and enabling it to be visually searched on the web. It supports actions such as scribble, circle or draw over the object and text on the screen.
The publication was able to activate the feature, even suggesting that it might not take long for the Mountain View-based tech giant to roll out the feature once original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) release Android 15 for their phones.
Circle to Search is expected to come to other smartphones
A recent report suggests that Google’s Circle to Search feature may be rolling out to more Android smartphones soon. The Xiaomi 14T series is speculated to be one of the first devices to get it, apart from Google and Samsung. It will be launched on September 26 in Berlin.
The AI-powered feature is also expected to introduce the Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 which debuted on Friday along with the Phantom V Flip 2, according to the report.
