Google is reportedly adding a new capability to its Circle to Search feature, which debuted with the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. With the new capability, the artificial intelligence-based visual lookup feature will be able to scan any QR codes and barcodes visible on the screen. It will show a chip with the URL of the destination website.
According to a report, the latest version of the Google app (v15.25.32) now includes support for scanning barcodes and QR codes. This feature allows users to long-press the Home button to activate the scanning function, which automatically scans the screen for any visible codes. Once a code is identified, a chip appears next to it, displaying part of the destination URL and, if available, a link preview. This new feature was first seen in the Google app v15.19.45.29.arm64 beta, but it was not functional until the latest update.
It's interesting to note that this feature seems to have been borrowed from Google Lens, which is also able to scan QR codes and barcodes. Earlier this year, Product Manager Erin Lynch and Director of Product Management Alistair Pott, who were working on the team that developed Circle to Search, confirmed in an interview that some of the features of Circle to Search utilized Google Lens capabilities.
They also mentioned that they were working on integrating the two products more closely. This new feature could be a result of that effort. When the visual lookup feature becomes available, it will make it more convenient to look up QR codes. Furthermore, this feature will also improve user safety by displaying the destination before a user scans it.
Meanwhile, Google has introduced five new features in its Chrome browser for Android and iOS mobile devices to enhance the search experience. These include new shortcuts for local search results and a redesigned address bar for easier navigation. Additionally, the new 'Chrome Actions' feature aims to help users save time when interacting with local businesses.
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