New 'Circle to Search' feature makes sending a screenshot easier than ever

Less than a year after making its debut, Circle to Search is getting a big upgrade.

The current version of the tool lets you circle something on your screen to find out more about it, but a new feature allows you to share what you've circled with others instantly. It's like sending a screenshot to someone, but it's a lot quicker and easier.

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Using the feature is simple. Long-press the home button, circle something on your screen, and a "Share" button will appear. (See below.) Tap it, and you'll see options for where you can send your selection. Unlike a screenshot, this feature doesn't save the photo to your phone. There is an option to store your photo in Google Photos or Google Keep if you want, but Circle to Search won't save it automatically.

Instead of taking a screenshot, opening a social media or messaging app, and then choosing your screenshot to send to someone, you can now accomplish the same thing without leaving the screen you're on and without having to scroll past that screenshot the next time you look through your photos.

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This addition comes not long after Circle to Search added support for music and support for getting more information about anything on your screen. Use the tool on a YouTube video you're watching, Google says, and you'll be able to find more about it. You can also generate images straight from the overlay and drag and drop them to Gmail or Google Messages. Google also recently added a conversational experience to Gemini that lets you ask complex questions, brainstorm, or explore ideas.

While Circle to Search was initially exclusive to the Galaxy S24 series, the new share option isn't exclusive and will be available to all Samsung and Pixel users with Gemini. It's being gradually rolled out as part of an update, so if you don't see it yet, you should soon.