Since the advent of the Galaxy S24 series, smartphone manufacturers have prioritized integrating AI into every facet of their devices. Apple introduced Apple Intelligence with the iPhone 16, offering a personalized AI experience, while Google unveiled Gemini for Android. Although Google’s full Gemini suite wasn’t immediately available, a key feature, Circle to Search, debuted on the Galaxy S24. This innovative tool uses AI to search for anything displayed on screen, simplifying product identification and valuation. While the feature remained largely unchanged on the Galaxy S24, the Galaxy S25 series boasts an updated version, initially released for Pixel phones, marking a significant enhancement to its functionality.
Circle to Search on a Google Pixel 8.
The Initial Impact of Circle to Search on the Galaxy S24
To appreciate the improvements in Circle to Search, let’s revisit its initial implementation on the Galaxy S24 and subsequent rollout to other Android devices. This feature revolutionized search by simplifying the process of identifying on-screen items. Imagine browsing Instagram and spotting an intriguing bag. A simple press and hold activated Circle to Search, allowing users to draw a circle around the item for instant identification.
Using Circle to Search on the Google Pixel 8a.
This experience mirrored Google Lens or reverse image search. The AI analyzed the displayed content and searched for a match. While highly accurate for mainstream products like technology or aircraft, it also provided similar matches for less common items. This eliminated the need for screenshots, reverse image searches, or tedious text-based searches. Over time, Circle to Search became faster and more precise, solidifying its place as a primary Gemini AI feature across various devices.
Elevating Circle to Search: The Power of Audio Recognition
Circle to search on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus
The Galaxy S25’s Circle to Search introduces remarkable audio recognition capabilities, effectively integrating functionalities like Shazam and Google Pixel’s Now Playing. This feature recognizes not only recorded audio but also humming and singing, expanding its utility significantly. While introduced around the Pixel 9 launch, its true potential becomes apparent on the Galaxy S25.
The practical application is evident. Recall a time when a song’s melody lingered in your mind, but its title remained elusive. With the enhanced Circle to Search, simply hum or sing the tune, and the answer appears within seconds.
Audio searching in Circle to Search in action on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus
Leveraging Google’s extensive database, this feature even recognizes foreign language songs. Its efficacy surpasses even Shazam and Now Playing, demonstrating its superior recognition capabilities. A minor drawback is the lack of a save or sharing option for identified songs, creating a new challenge of remembering the discovered tunes.
Circle to Search: AI Done Right
Audio mode in Circle to Search in use on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus
Circle to Search exemplifies practical AI implementation, transitioning from a perceived gimmick to an invaluable tool. Alongside features like Apple Intelligence Notification Summaries, it simplifies user experience. While the Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts numerous other AI features, Circle to Search stands out for its daily utility. From generating financial gains through accurate item valuation to effortless music recognition, Circle to Search embodies effective AI integration in smartphones. Its continued development by Samsung and Google promises even greater enhancements, further distinguishing Android devices and solidifying their position among the best smartphones.
