Circle to Search on iOS: A Convenient Shortcut for iPhone Users
While Android users have been enjoying Google’s innovative Circle to Search feature, iPhone users have been left out—until now. A newly released Shortcut for the Google app for iOS allows iPhone owners to access a similar functionality, bringing the convenience of visual searches to Apple’s ecosystem. This article explores the features, limitations, and setup process of this new shortcut, revealing how iPhone users can quickly and easily leverage Google Lens for visual search.
Introducing the "Search your screenshot" Shortcut
Developed by Google Lens Design Manager Minsang Choi, the "Search your screenshot" Shortcut leverages the power of Google Lens to perform visual searches directly from your iPhone. You can access this shortcut through the Google app for iOS, taking advantage of the familiar Google Lens experience.
"Google App iOS team just released super cool shortcut that allows you to lens visual search using your action button on iPhone 15 Pro series. It’s basically circle to search but faster! Please download google app and try this out!" – Minsang Choi (@radiofun8)
This Shortcut introduces a streamlined visual search method for iPhone users. Unlike the Android version of Circle to Search, which allows drawing a circle around a specific area on the screen, the iPhone shortcut directly uses Google Lens on a screenshot of your screen.
Setting Up the "Search your screenshot" Shortcut
Setting up the "Search your screenshot" Shortcut is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Ensure your iPhone is running iOS 13 or later.
- Download the latest version of the Google app for iOS. You can find this in the App Store.
- Access the Shortcut:
- Directly: Tap the link shared by Choi on your iPhone.
- Manually: Open the Shortcuts app and create a new Shortcut. Add the following actions:
- Take screenshot
- Search Image With Lens
- Customize the shortcut by mapping it to a specific action:
- Action Button: Map the "Search your screenshot" shortcut to the Action button on your iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max for even faster access.
- Back Tap: Navigate to your iPhone’s Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap, and assign the shortcut to a double tap or triple tap gesture on your device.
Exploring the Limitations
While the "Search your screenshot" Shortcut provides a valuable new tool for iPhone users, it does come with some limitations:
- No Circle or Highlight Function: Unlike Circle to Search on Android, the iPhone Shortcut doesn’t allow you to draw a circle or highlight a specific area on the screen for visual search. This means you need to capture the entire screen, which may not always be practical or provide the desired search results.
- Reliance on Google Lens: The Shortcut’s functionality is entirely dependent on Google Lens. This means it inherits any limitations of Google Lens itself, including potential accuracy issues or difficulties with specific image types.
However, the convenience of accessing a visual search with just a couple of taps, combined with the widely adopted functionality of Google Lens, makes this Shortcut a valuable addition for iPhone users.
Comparing to Circle to Search on Android
Circle to Search on Android offers greater flexibility and precision compared to the iPhone Shortcut. Android users can draw a circle around a specific object or area to initiate a visual search, making it ideal for tasks like:
- Identifying an object in a photo: Circle to Search can help you learn more about a specific item you’ve captured.
- Finding a product online: You can select a product in a web browser or social media to find detailed information or purchase options.
- Searching for information about a landmark: Circle an area on a map or image to instantly get relevant information about the location.
While the iPhone Shortcut offers a more limited version of visual search, it is a significant step forward in bringing this functionality to Apple’s ecosystem. As the technology develops, we can anticipate more advanced features and capabilities becoming available in the future.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for Visual Search on iOS
The "Search your screenshot" Shortcut marks a significant advancement for iPhone users seeking quick and convenient visual search capabilities. While it may not match the flexibility of Circle to Search on Android, it provides a valuable and easy-to-use solution for accessing Google Lens directly from your iPhone.
This Shortcut offers iPhone users an effective approach to visual search, allowing them to leverage the power of Google Lens for various tasks, from identifying objects to finding information about specific areas. As the technology evolves, we can anticipate even more innovative ways for iPhone users to benefit from the power of visual search.
