Google Search Circle has become a much-loved feature on Android for its intuitive way of searching for objects in images. In recent months, the tool has gone mainstream and has even inspired imitators on iOS. There is now new evidence to suggest that Circle to Search will soon see another substantial update that will introduce new support for audio inputs and improve the user experience on the Pixel tablet.
Starting with the first, Android Authority dove into a recent beta version of a Google app, where they discovered strings of code referencing an “audio search button.” The post managed to get the button to appear in the feature's UI. It takes the shape of a circle with a musical note icon. However, pressing the button did nothing as according to the report, it lacks all functions.
However, they speculated about what it might do. Your best guess is that audio search will be able to “identify sounds and music played” on a smartphone. You can also use audio to provide additional context for search queries. The button will apparently be to the right of the microphone icon in the Google search bar as a separate entity.
Because we're still in the early stages, it's unknown if Google will ever release the feature in some form. The whole thing may very well be scrapped.
Tablet improvements
The second possible update would allow users to activate Circle to Search on the Pixel tablet by simply “holding the action key.” If you're unfamiliar, the action key takes the form of a three-dot icon surrounding a magnifying glass in the persistent taskbar. Doing so will bring up a Search Circle, as evidenced by the iridescent colors on the screen. From there, you can proceed to use the tool normally.
A feature like this already exists on the Pixel tablet, as it appears when you press the gray line on the temporary taskbar. As Android Authority explains in its report, the device has two versions of the taskbar and users can choose the style they prefer. But only the transient taskbar offers quick access to Circle to Search, so people who prefer the persistent option are out of luck. This update, if completed, could change everything, since it would allow all users to enjoy the same experience.
Unlike the previous audio feature, it looks like you can try Circle to Search on a Pixel tablet by installing the third beta version of Android 15. Users will first need to enroll their device in Google's Android Beta for Pixel program and then download the patch. Instructions on how to do this can be found on the company's website. They also recommend backing up your data before signing up, to ensure you don't miss anything important.
The arrival of the third beta version of Android 15 comes about a month after the release of the second and brings an important new feature in the form of private space. This allows users to hide and lock sensitive apps and is available to try if you are in the beta program.
