Look up anything on your screen with Circle to Search on your Samsung Galaxy

Last Update date : Apr 24. 2026
S Pen circling an object on the screen of a Samsung Galaxy phone to use Circle to Search.

Circle to Search lets you quickly look up anything you see on your screen without switching apps. Simply circle, tap, or highlight an image, text or object to get instant search results. Whether you want to identify a landmark, shop for a product, or learn more about something you’re viewing, this feature makes searching faster and more intuitive on your Samsung Galaxy.

Note: The information provided applies to devices sold in Canada. Features, services, and screens may vary depending on your country.

  • Circle to Search is available on select Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets running Android 14 with One UI 6.1 or later.
  • An internet connection is required to use Circle to Search.
  • Circle to Search is activated by pressing and holding the Home button or navigation handle on your screen.
  • You can also use Circle to Search with the S Pen on compatible devices.
  • Circle to Search may not work in apps that restrict screen capture due to security or copyright protections.

Circle to Search is enabled by default on supported Samsung Galaxy devices, so you can start using it right away. However, it’s a good idea to check that the feature is available and properly set up on your device.

Note: Checking these settings is also a simple way to confirm whether Circle to Search is supported on your Samsung Galaxy.

Settings menu on a Samsung Galaxy phone with the Display option highlighted. Settings menu on a Samsung Galaxy phone with the Display option highlighted.

Step 1. Open the Settings menu. Then, scroll through the options and tap Display.

Display settings on a Samsung Galaxy phone with the Navigation bar option highlighted. Display settings on a Samsung Galaxy phone with the Navigation bar option highlighted.

Step 2. Scroll through the menu and tap Navigation bar.

Navigation bar settings on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing Circle to Search turned on. Navigation bar settings on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing Circle to Search turned on.

Step 3. Make sure Circle to Search is turned on. If not, tap the toggle to enable it.

Note: If you prefer not to use Circle to Search, you can turn off this option. In this case, the feature will no longer activate when you press and hold the Home button or navigation handle.

Once Circle to Search is enabled, you can use it at any time without leaving the app you are using. Simply press and hold the Home button or navigation handle, then circle, tap or highlight what you want to look up on your screen.

Note: The first time you use Circle to Search, you may need to allow the necessary permissions or tap Continue on the prompt.

Gallery app on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing images, with the Home button highlighted to activate Circle to Search. Gallery app on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing images, with the Home button highlighted to activate Circle to Search.

Step 1. Open the app of your choice. When you find something you want to look up, touch and hold the Home button or navigation handle.

Circle to Search results on a Samsung Galaxy phone with a selected object highlighted on the screen. Circle to Search results on a Samsung Galaxy phone with a selected object highlighted on the screen.

Step 2. Use your finger to circle the item of interest. You can also use the S Pen or simply tap the item.

Circle to Search results on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing related matches and search suggestions for a selected object. Circle to Search results on a Samsung Galaxy phone showing related matches and search suggestions for a selected object.

Step 3. Related results will appear on your screen. Swipe the results panel up to view more options. Tap a result to open it in a new window.

Note:

  • Use the search bar to refine your query, just like a regular Google search. You can also tap the Microphone icon to search using your voice.
  • Results may vary when searching for the same image, depending on factors such as clarity, framing and context.
  • Circle to Search also works with screenshots. You can use it to search for items shown in videos or animations.
  • Identify objects, landmarks, products or other items directly from your screen.
  • Find similar items or compare prices while browsing or using social media.
  • Search or translate text from images, videos or screenshots.
  • Learn more about anything you see without leaving your current app.

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