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How to use Circle to Search on your Galaxy phone or tablet

Narrowing down your search results in a web browser can be tricky. With the Circle to Search feature on select Galaxy devices, you can simply circle an item, object, or other content to view additional information about it, such as videos featuring the content, where it can be purchased, and if it's trending on social media apps.
A Galaxy phone screen displays the Circle to Search feature, using the S Pen to draw a circle around a school backpack for a focused search.
A Galaxy phone screen displays the Circle to Search feature, using the S Pen to draw a circle around a school backpack for a focused search.

How to use Circle to Search on your Galaxy phone or tablet

Note
  • An internet connection is required to use the Circle to Search feature. Results may vary by uniqueness, clarity, and framing of circled images, and related factors.
  • Circle to Search is available on select Galaxy phones and tablets running Android 14 with One UI 6.1 or higher. If the feature is not available on your device, it may not be compatible. Ensure your device is updated.
  • Circle to Search can also be used with the S Pen on compatible devices.
  • Circle to Search is not supported in apps that prohibit screen capture due to security and copyright issues.
Set up Circle to Search

Circle to Search is enabled by default, but you can verify or adjust its settings through your device's menu:

  1. Navigate to and open Settings.
  2. Tap Display.
  3. Tap Navigation bar.
  4. Locate Circle to Search at the bottom of the screen.
    Circle to Search highlighted in Settings

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Use Circle to Search with the Home button

Use Circle to Search with the Home button

Whether you spot a stylish dress in a social media post or need more details about an object, Circle to Search works seamlessly across apps, including web browsers, social media platforms, and the Camera app.

  1. Open the app where you found the item of interest. 
  2. Touch and hold the Home icon on the navigation bar. For the Camera app, point your phone at the item first, then hold the Home icon.
    A Galaxy S26 Ultra screen showing the navigation bar at the bottom with the home button circled in blue.
    Note: You may need to grant permissions or tap Continue during your first use.
  3. Circle or tap the item using your finger.
    A Galaxy S26 Ultra screen showing a white circle drawn around a woman wearing sunglasses to initiate a search.
  4. Galaxy AI will display related search results. Swipe up to view more options. Tap AI mode at the bottom for context-relevant follow-up queries.
    A Galaxy S26 Ultra screen showing Google search results with the AI Mode tab highlighted by a blue outline.
  5. Select a result to open it in a new window, which may include articles, videos, or apps.
    A Galaxy S26 Ultra screen showing Google search results with a cropped image of a woman wearing cream sunglasses.
  6. If text is detected, tap Copy to extract it to your clipboard or Translate for instant translation.

If you ever need to review your past searches, they are saved along with other Google searches and can be managed with Google.

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Disable Circle to Search

If you prefer to turn off Circle to Search, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps, then tap Choose default apps.
    Choose default apps being highlighted in Settings
  3. Tap Digital assistant app, and then turn off Analyze on-screen images.
    Note: Disabling this feature will prevent Circle to Search from working and display a message stating, "Circle to Search unavailable due to your settings." Google Assistant will also be unavailable for use with this feature.
    Analyze on-screen images deactivated in Settings

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Search is unavailable error message

Search is unavailable error message

If you encounter issues using Circle to Search, ensure the necessary settings are enabled:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps, then select Choose default apps.
  3. Tap Digital assistant app and toggle on Analyze on-screen images.
    Analyze on-screen images being highlighted in Settings
  4. Alternative: If you see the message "Circle to Search unavailable due to your settings," tap Go to settings and enable the option.
    Go to settings highlighted in a prompt when Circle to Search is unavailable

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