This iOS Shortcut Brings Circle to Search Feature to Your iPhone, Sort Of

May. 13, 2024

Earlier this year, Google introduced the Circle to Search feature to its Pixel devices, which was laterextendedto the Samsung Galaxy S24 series devices as well. With this, Google basically allows you to draw acirclearound any image or text you come across on the internet to do a quick search of it. Understandably, ever since, iOS users have been wanting to get a taste of it too. Well, now they can.

Turns out, it exists in the form of an iOSshortcutthat lets you initiate Google Lens when you take a screenshot. The good thing is, that it will work with any and every iPhone out there. I tried it on aniPhone 12 Pro, iPhone X, and iPhone 15 Pro, and it works pretty well. With the iPhone 15 Pro though, it gets a bit easier, thanks to its Action Button.

For other iPhones, it gets a little tricky, especially if you’re new to the iOS experience. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

How Does It Work?

First things first, you will need to download theGoogle app(free) on your iPhone if you don’t have it. Then, we’ll get to creating the shortcut to trigger Google Lens, like this:

Now that you’ve created the shortcut, it’s time to trigger it. Yes yes, I know, it can feel complex at first. But, once you set it up, it’s rather simple. Next,

With that, you’re all set. The next time you’re on a webpage or even open your camera to identify an object, simplydouble or triple-tap the back of your iPhoneto screenshot and send the image to Google Lens, like this:

Pretty cool, huh? It can work at a turtle’s pace at times though. The first time you use the feature, you will also see a permission request pop-up, where you’ll need to selectAlways Allow. While this functionality is notexactlylike the Circle to Search feature, it works similarly. You are just not able to circle a particular section of your screen. But, when on the Google Lens page, you can crop to select a particular section of the screen.

This is a pretty clever workaround and at least lets iOS users experience the feature. What about you? Did you know about this? If not, do give it a try and let us know how it works for you in the comments down below.

Sagnik is a tech aficionado who can never say “no” to dipping his toes into unknown waters of tech or reviewing the latest gadgets. He is also a hardcore gamer, having played everything from Snake Xenzia to Dead Space Remake.