2 Easy Methods to Enable Circle to Search Feature on Any Android Phones

Google’s Circle to Search Feature has introduced a game-changing way to interact with on-screen content. Whether it’s searching for highlighted text, analyzing images, or scanning QR codes, this feature significantly enhances productivity. In this article, we’ll explore how to enable the Circle to Search Feature on Android phones using two methods—official and third-party options.

Circle to Search is now available for many Android phones, offering users quick access to information with just a simple gesture. The feature supports everything from text recognition to visual search, making it ideal for students, professionals, and anyone who needs fast, efficient answers. Keep reading to discover how you can enable Circle to Search on any Android phone, regardless of official support.

If you’re curious about device compatibility, we’ve also covered a list of eligible devices in a previous article. However, for those whose devices are not officially supported, we’ll also show you how to enable Circle to Search using a third-party method. Additionally, this post will link you to our comprehensive guide on the “Complete List of Android Phones Eligible for Google Circle to Search Feature.”

Table of Contents

What is the Circle to Search Feature?

The Circle to Search Feature is an advanced search tool designed to simplify and accelerate searches for specific content. By circling a text segment, an image, or a QR code on your screen, you can instantly access related information, similar images, or search results. This feature leverages Google’s powerful AI and Lens technology, offering a seamless and interactive way to explore content directly from your device.

Ideal for educational, professional, and everyday uses, Circle to Search transforms the way users interact with their phones. It’s particularly helpful for identifying products, translating text, finding song names, and decoding QR codes with just a few taps. Whether browsing your gallery, scanning a screenshot, or exploring web content, this feature enhances your search experience like never before.

Circle to Search Features

How to Check if Your Android Phone Supports Circle to Search - The Android Rush

1. Advanced Text Recognition

The Circle to Search Feature allows users to identify and search for text within seconds. Highlighting a segment of text on-screen and circling it can provide definitions, translations, or related search results instantly. This capability is incredibly useful for students researching complex topics or professionals looking for quick solutions during work.

2. Visual Image Search

Circle to Search empowers users to explore the world around them through visual discovery. By circling any object in an image—be it a product, animal, or landmark—you can uncover more details, such as pricing, background information, or related images. This functionality enhances the experience of shopping online or learning about your environment.

3. QR and Barcode Scanning

The feature also supports scanning barcodes and QR codes directly on-screen without requiring a dedicated scanning app. This makes it easier to retrieve product details, access websites, or complete mobile payments, all with a simple gesture.

4. Integrated Song Identification

Music lovers can use Circle to Search to detect songs playing in the background by tapping a music icon. This tool quickly identifies song titles, artists, and albums, enhancing the listening experience and making it easier to discover new music.

2 Easy Methods to Enable Circle to Search Feature on Any Android Phones

For Android users whose devices are not officially supported, there’s a reliable third-party option to enable the Circle to Search feature. This method involves downloading two applications and making specific configurations on your phone. With a few simple steps, you can access the feature regardless of your device’s compatibility.

Before starting, make sure your Google application is fully updated. You can also try the Google Beta version if this method doesn’t work with the latest stable version. After updating, proceed to download the following two applications:

Method 1: Using Third-Party Applications

Steps to Enable Circle to Search Using Third-Party Applications

Update the Google Application
Ensure your Google app is updated to the latest version. You can do this via the Google Play Store. If needed, consider enrolling in the Google Beta program to access experimental updates.
Download and Install Google CTS
- Install the Google CTS application.
- After installation, open the app. It will download essential modules in the background automatically.
- No pop-ups or permissions will appear—simply allow the app to process in the background.
Download and Install Action Notch
- Install the Action Notch app from the provided link.
- Open the app and grant all necessary permissions, including Accessibility Permission and others.
- If you encounter a Restricted Settings Warning on Android 14 or certain Android models, navigate to Settings > App Management for Action Notch. Enable the Allow Restricted Settings toggle.
Configure the Action Notch App
- Launch Action Notch.
- Look for the Long Press Notch option and enable it.
- From the menu, select Google CTS as the default app to use with this feature.
Activate Circle to Search
- Go to your home screen or any app/website.
- Tap and hold the notch area of your phone (e.g., pill-shaped notch, center punch-hole design).
- The Circle to Search overlay will appear, allowing you to draw a circle around any on-screen text, image, or object to access detailed search results.

📥 Tap on the links below to download the required applications.

Google CTS
Action Notch

Important Notes After Completing the Steps

Once the setup is complete, you can enjoy the Circle to Search feature on your Android phone. This method works seamlessly on most devices, including models not officially supported by Google. Whether you’re searching for product information, identifying landmarks, or translating text, this workaround ensures you can use Circle to Search with ease.

If you face any issues while setting up the apps, double-check your permissions and settings. It’s crucial to grant restricted settings permissions for the apps to function correctly with Android 14 or newer versions.

How to Enable Circle to Search Without Installing Third-Party Applications

If you don’t want to use third-party applications but still wish to access a similar feature, there’s a built-in way available using the latest Google Lens functionality. This method is simple, safe, and can be tested on any Android phone, including models from Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi.

Using Google Lens, you can replicate the Circle to Search experience. It works directly with your screenshots, offering fast and efficient access to information without additional app installations. This method has been tested and works seamlessly on devices like the Xiaomi Redmi Note series running Android 14 and HyperOS.

Steps to Use Circle to Search Feature with Google Lens [Method 2]

Take a Screenshot
- Navigate to any screen where you want to use Circle to Search.
- Tap and hold with three fingers (or use the standard button combination) to take a screenshot.
Open the Screenshot in the Share Menu
- After capturing the screenshot, tap on the Share option.
- Select Google Lens from the sharing menu.
Select the Desired Area to Search
- Within Google Lens, use the tool to select a specific area or object from your screenshot.
- It will instantly analyze the content and provide related results, including products, text recognition, or other details.
Optimize for Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi Users
- Users of these devices can enable the “Delete after sharing” option while sharing the screenshot via Google Lens.
- This will reduce storage consumption by automatically deleting the shared screenshot after the process is completed.

Important Notes for Method 2

This method works well on all Android phones with the latest Google application and Google Lens functionality. It’s an excellent alternative for users who want to avoid installing additional applications while still accessing features similar to Circle to Search.

For Xiaomi, Poco, and Redmi users, this method not only saves space but also delivers a seamless experience. If you encounter any difficulties, ensure your Google app is updated and your screenshot feature is enabled.

Enabling Circle to Search in Action

Final Thoughts on Enabling Circle to Search

Google’s Circle to Search feature is a groundbreaking addition for Android users, delivering an intuitive way to interact with content on your device. While its availability may be limited to certain devices, the methods discussed in this article ensure that almost any Android user can access similar functionalities—whether through official tools like Google Lens or by leveraging third-party applications.

For users with compatible devices, activating Circle to Search is straightforward and offers powerful features like text recognition, image analysis, and QR code scanning. Meanwhile, for those exploring alternative methods, tools like Action Notch and Google CTS provide a seamless workaround to enjoy similar functionality.

If your device isn’t officially supported yet, don’t worry—Google is continually expanding the list of compatible Android phones, and future updates might bring this feature to more models. Stay updated by keeping your apps and operating system current, as compatibility depends heavily on software updates and hardware capabilities.

Quick Reference to the Complete Device List

For those curious about whether their phone is officially eligible for Circle to Search, don’t forget to check our detailed guide, Complete List of Android Phones Eligible for Google Circle to Search Feature. It includes all supported devices and additional insights on Google’s rollout strategy for this feature.

If you’ve already tried Circle to Search, do share your experiences in the comments! Whether it’s through official support or alternative methods, we’d love to hear how this feature is working for you.

FAQs About Circle to Search

Here’s a list of common questions to help you better understand this feature:

1. Is Circle to Search available for Android 13 and earlier versions?

The feature primarily supports Android 14 and later versions due to hardware and software dependencies. However, alternative methods might work on earlier versions.

2. Can I use Google Lens without taking a screenshot?

Yes, you can directly open Google Lens to analyze live camera feeds or images from your gallery for similar search functionality.

3. What should I do if Action Notch doesn’t work properly?

Ensure all required permissions, including accessibility settings, are enabled. If using Android 14, allow restricted settings for the app to function correctly.

4. Does using third-party apps compromise my device’s security?

The suggested apps are generally safe, but it’s always best to download from trusted sources like the Google Play Store and ensure you’re comfortable granting necessary permissions.

5. Will Circle to Search work offline?

No, both the official and third-party methods require an active internet connection for real-time search results.

6. Have we tested Circle to Search on older devices?

Currently, we’ve tested the feature on Poco and Xiaomi devices running Android 14. However, we haven’t personally tested it on devices with older Android versions. If you’re using an earlier version, give it a try and let us know in the comments if it works for you. Your feedback helps us enhance our guide for others!

Why Some Devices Don’t Support Circle to Search Officially

Google’s expansion of Circle to Search is gradual due to compatibility challenges. Features like advanced AI image recognition require specific hardware and software combinations. For instance, Samsung users needed One UI 6.1, while Motorola and OnePlus devices required updates for security patches. Furthermore, devices managed by IT administrators might have certain features disabled, restricting usage.

However, Google is actively working to expand support, so keep an eye out for future updates. If your device isn’t supported yet, consider the methods mentioned above for immediate access.

Stay Updated on Android Tools and Features

Additionally, keep exploring more Android tools and guides in our dedicated Android Tips & Tricks section.

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2 Easy Methods to Enable Circle to Search Feature on Any Android Phones