Google makes Circle to Search easier to use by putting it directly in the Pixel Camera

Google is making Circle to Search even more on the Pixel 11 series by integrating the feature directly into the Pixel Camera app. This means users can now point their phone at something and search for it without first taking a photo or switching to another app.

Google says that if you spot an unfamiliar object, a piece of text, or something else you want to learn more about, you can use Circle to Search while the Camera app is open. The feature can identify objects, translate text, zoom in to search for things farther away, and answer questions about what you’re seeing.

You can point the camera at the object or text and hold the home bar to bring up Circle to Search. Google also notes that Circle to Search appears more quickly than before, though the company hasn’t provided much detail on exactly how it works.

The change should make Circle to Search feel more natural for situations where you’re already using the camera. Rather than taking a picture, opening it, and then triggering Circle To Search, you can now search from the viewfinder.

For now, Google hasn’t said whether this new Pixel Camera integration will come to older Pixel phones. The company’s Pixel 11 materials describe the feature as part of the new Pixel lineup, but don’t explicitly say it’s exclusive to the Pixel 11 series or confirm its availability on older devices.