Circle is a handy gesture feature available on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones that allows you to quickly access Google Assistant and perform searches with a simple circular motion on your screen.
How to enable Circle to Search
Before you can use Circle to search, you'll need to enable the feature in your settings:
Google Pixel:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap "System" > "Gestures" > "Active Edge."
- Turn on "Active Edge" and select "Google Assistant" as the action.
Samsung Galaxy (One UI 6.1 and later):
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap "Advanced features" > "Motions and gestures."
- Turn on "Gesture control" and enable "Circle to search."
Using Circle to Search
Once you've enabled Circle to search, you can start using it right away:
- Wake up your phone's screen.
- Place your finger or thumb near the bottom corner of the screen.
- Draw a circle with your finger in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.
- The Google Assistant will launch, and you can speak or type your query.
Circle to search is particularly useful for quickly searching the web, opening apps, getting directions, and performing other tasks without having to unlock your phone or navigate through multiple menus.
Circle to Search tips
Here are some advanced tips for getting the most out of Circle to search:
- Adjust the sensitivity: You can adjust the sensitivity of Circle to search in your settings to make the gesture easier or harder to activate.
- Use voice commands: After launching the Google Assistant with Circle to search, you can use voice commands to perform various actions without typing.
- Customize the gesture: On some Samsung Galaxy models, you can customize the direction of the circle gesture or change it to a different shape entirely.
- Access quick shortcuts: Circle to search can also provide quick shortcuts to common actions, like taking a screenshot or turning on the flashlight.
FAQ
Q: Which devices currently support Circle to Search?
A: The feature is currently supported on the Google Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 7, and 7 Pro. It is also available on the Samsung Galaxy S24 series. Google may expand support to other Android smartphones in the near future.
Q: Does Circle to Search work on other Android phones?
A: No, Circle to Search is currently exclusive to Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones running recent versions of Android.
Q: Can I use Circle to Search while the screen is off?
A: No, Circle to Search requires the screen to be on and unlocked to function.
Q: Does Circle to Search drain battery life?
A: Circle to Search should have minimal impact on battery life when used moderately. However, excessive use of the feature or leaving it enabled when not needed could lead to a slightly higher battery drain.
Q: Can I disable Circle to Search?
A: Yes, you can turn off Circle to search in the settings menu on both Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones.
Q: Does Circle to Search work with third-party launchers or custom ROMs?
A: Compatibility with third-party launchers and custom ROMs may vary, as Circle to Search is a native feature of the stock Android software from Google and Samsung.
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