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Google to Allow Global Android Users to Search Within Apps

Google introduces Circle to Search feature for Android users to search within apps. Users can select text, images, or videos in any app and search for related information. Feature aims to increase engagement for apps and their content.

In a bid to enhance its search engine capabilities and drive engagement for app developers, Google has announced that it will enable global Android smartphone users to search for content within other applications without having to exit them. The new feature, called Circle to Search, will be gradually rolled out from January 31 on select premium Android smartphones.


With Circle to Search, users will have the ability to select text, images, or videos within any app and search for related information within that app using Google. For example, users can circle or tap on items in a video to search for details on what a content creator is wearing. To activate the feature, users simply need to long-press their Android phone's home button or navigation bar.


This feature aims to provide quick access to information without the need to switch between apps, thereby potentially increasing engagement for both apps and the content they display. Early testing has shown that users typically return to the app they were using after utilising the Circle to Search feature.


While the exact timeline for availability on iPhones has not been disclosed, Google has expressed its intention to bring this capability to more people over time. The initial rollout of the feature will include Android handsets such as the Samsung Electronics' new Galaxy S24 Series.


Google's parent company, Alphabet, reported an 11% increase in revenue for the three months ending September 30, attributing the growth to significant advancements in search and YouTube. Advertising revenue also saw a 9.5% year-on-year increase, reaching US$59.6 billion.


However, Google is currently facing uncertainties in Hong Kong, where the government is seeking to have the company remove the protest song "Glory to Hong Kong" from its search engine. Despite a Hong Kong court blocking the government's injunction bid in July, the court later allowed the government to appeal the decision.

 
  • Google introduces Circle to Search feature for Android users to search within apps

  • Users can select text, images, or videos in any app and search for related information

  • Feature aims to increase engagement for apps and their content


Source: SCMP

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