Google's Circle to Search Feature Expanding to Files App with AI Summaries
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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.
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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.
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Google is reportedly planning to integrate its Circle to Search feature into the Files by Google app, potentially allowing users to search for information about files and identify songs. The update may also include AI-powered file summaries.
Google's Circle to Search Expands to Files App
Google's innovative Circle to Search feature, initially introduced for the Pixel 8 series and select Samsung Galaxy devices, is reportedly set to expand its functionality to the Files by Google app. This development could significantly enhance the way users interact with their stored files and media
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.New Capabilities for File Interaction
The integration of Circle to Search into the Files app is expected to bring several new capabilities:
- File Information: Users may be able to circle or highlight file names to quickly access detailed information about the file
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. - Song Identification: The feature could allow users to identify songs within video files, similar to how Shazam works
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. - AI-Powered Summaries: Google is reportedly working on implementing AI technology to generate summaries of files, potentially streamlining file management and improving user productivity
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Potential Impact on User Experience
If implemented, these features could significantly enhance the user experience within the Files by Google app. The ability to quickly search for file information and identify songs without leaving the app could streamline workflows and save time for users
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.AI Integration in File Management
The reported inclusion of AI-generated summaries for files marks a notable step in Google's efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its products. This feature could potentially help users manage their files more efficiently by providing quick overviews of document contents
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.Current Availability and Future Roll-out
As of now, the Circle to Search feature is limited to certain devices, including the Pixel 8 series and some Samsung Galaxy smartphones. The potential expansion to the Files app suggests that Google is looking to broaden the feature's accessibility and usefulness across its ecosystem
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Privacy and Data Concerns
While these features promise enhanced functionality, they may also raise questions about data privacy and usage. As with any AI-powered feature, users might wonder about how their file information is processed and whether it's stored or used for other purposes
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.Awaiting Official Confirmation
It's important to note that these features are still in the realm of speculation. Google has not officially confirmed these additions to the Files app, and the actual implementation may differ from what's currently being reported
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