Google's Circle to Search Gets an Upgrade for Enhanced Answering 

Published: Nov 27, 2025, 5:40 AM

AI-Powered Follow-Up Questions Now Available

Google's Circle to Search is evolving, bringing you improved responses through its new AI mode for follow-up questions. This update simplifies the way you ask about an image or a piece of text.

When you use Circle to Search and choose an image, it retrieves relevant information from Google and presents the findings. Prior to this enhancement, subsequent searches initiated with the same image would yield standard Google Search results, lacking AI support. With the latest update, after receiving results from Circle to Search, a new "Ask Anything" search bar appears instead of the standard search option. This allows you to inquire about the image and receive answers powered by Google’s AI, promising more insightful responses compared to traditional search results.

The same functionality applies to text snippets in Circle to Search, enabling discussions with AI for better insights. This should help you gain more information than what’s available through standard Google Search—assuming accuracy is maintained.

This update accompanies version 16.47.49 of the Google app.

Advanced Features of Circle to Search

Circle to Search debuted alongside the Galaxy S24 series in 2024, during a time when AI integration in smartphones was just beginning to rise, and many companies were vying for user attention with AI capabilities.

Far from being a gimmick, Circle to Search serves as a highly effective tool that offers numerous features to assist you with various inquiries. By long-pressing the home or gesture button, you can activate Circle to Search. Then, using your finger (or S Pen on Galaxy S Ultra devices), you can circle, tap, or highlight anything on your screen—be it an object, a word, or even video content—and receive instant search results and details.

This feature combines visual search capabilities with text/image recognition, eliminating the need to screenshot, copy, or retype information. It’s especially useful for translating unfamiliar menus or identifying plants and clothing in photos.

Being integrated into the system allows for a smooth and quick experience, transforming how I navigate online or scroll through social media.

Why I’m a Fan of Circle to Search

Honestly, Circle to Search is one of those handy phone features that turns out to be far more useful than anticipated.

As someone who often encounters intriguing objects, unfamiliar quotes, or new dishes online, I frequently find myself thinking, "I need to know more about this." Instead of taking screenshots and Googling, I appreciate the simplicity of just circling and receiving instant feedback.

It's not solely about convenience; expanding my knowledge is a top priority, and this feature allows me to explore information effortlessly. So, I'm a bit of a know-it-all, in a way.

This latest enhancement refines Circle to Search even further, and I wholeheartedly support it. For me, it's one of the most reasonable applications of AI available today.