Google's Circle to Search Feature Expanding to Files App with AI Summaries

Google Circle to Search could soon help you learn about your files and identify songs

Files by Google could be getting a Circle to Search upgrade to coincide with Made by Google and the new Pixel 9 series, going by findings from 9to5Google. In breaking down the latest APK file of the Files by Google app, 9to5 found that when you open an image, you may now see a button (using one of two designs) above the regular Edit button. Tapping this second button opens Circle to Search interface. Only the image opens in Circle to Search, so you don't get any app UI in the way that could impede the search. Annoyingly this appears to be a server-side change for users of the app's beta version. So even if you install the beta, there's no guarantee you'll be able to give this a try. However, another, locally-enabled, setting seems to be turning on "AI-generated summaries" for text files opened in Files by Google. You may need on-device AI already present to use it though, which is fine if you're using a Pixel, but it could mean it's unavailable on other types of Android phone. In other Circle to Search news, Google may soon give it the ability to ID songs playing nearby, according to Android Authority. Google already offers the Now Playing feature on its Pixel lock screen, so it clearly knows how to add a feature elsewhere. But this Audio Search ability will be able to tell you what's playing both in the environment and on the device, just by selecting a new music note button from the regular Circle to Search menu. The feature doesn't actually work if you try to test it, sadly. But no doubt this will be enabled soon enough for users with compatible phones to try. This all comes as we wait for today's Made by Google event to begin. Perhaps Google will announce these features formally as part of expected announcements around Gemini and Android 15. But these aren't guaranteed, unlike Google's promised reveal of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, four phones we expect could be some of the best Android phones of the year. Make sure to join us in our Made by Google live blog if you want up-to-the-minute updates.

Files by Google could include Circle to Search and AI summaries: Report

Files by Google has reportedly added a shortcut for Circle to Search while viewing images, according to 9to5Google. When a user views a full screen image, above the edit floating action Button is a smaller action button. Google is reportedly testing two new icons for that smaller action button; one is magnifying glass and AI sparkle that is used for Smart Search capability by Files app and the second is a Google Lens logo. While Circle to Search does not have its own icon, a text box is displayed on the screen which says to Circle or tap anywhere to search.