Google Pixel to introduce 'Circle to Search' for split-screen mode

Google Pixel to introduce 'Circle to Search' for split-screen mode
27 Apr 2024

Google is currently experimenting with an enhancement to the Pixel Launcher, specifically targeting the 'Circle to Search' feature.

The update aims to enable this functionality in split-screen mode on Pixel devices, a capability currently unavailable.

The 'Circle to Search' feature allows users to tap, draw, or scribble a circle, over any text or image they wish to search on Google.

How does it work?
Functionality

Activating the 'Circle to Search' feature is as straightforward as pressing and holding on the navigation pill at the bottom of almost any screen.

However, there are certain situations where this feature does not work due to app restrictions or unsupported scenarios.

One such limitation is when two apps are running side-by-side in split-screen mode on Pixel phones.

'Circle to Search' uses Android's Assist API
Underlying mechanism

The 'Circle to Search' function operates using Android's Assist API, which accesses an image of the screen.

This is why the feature stops working if "use screenshot" is disabled under Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app, when Google is set as Android's default digital assistant app.

Changing the default digital assistant app from Google also disrupts Circle to Search, as it is integrated into the Google App.

Google is aware of the limitation
Progress update

Interestingly, while this limitation is exclusive to Pixel phones, other smartphones like Samsung Galaxy S24 series already support 'Circle to Search' in split-screen mode.

Google seems to have acknowledged this limitation with Pixel devices and is actively working toward a resolution.

During the exploration of Google's Pixel Launcher app in the Android 15 beta, Android expert Mishaal Rahman discovered a setting enabling Circle to Search in split-screen mode on his Google Pixel 8 Pro.