Circle to Search Could Soon Support Split Screen Mode on Pixel Phones: Report

Circle to Search has been reported to suffer from a problem unique to Google Pixel smartphones. The feature seems to not work when a user has enabled split screen mode which opens two different apps or windows at the same time. A report claims that Google is testing the issue and might fix it soon and allow users to access the feature even while working in split-screen mode. Notably, a recent report highlighted that the tech giant is also working on a feature that will allow users to capture partial screenshots of the selected screen.

According to a report from Android Authority (via Mishaal Rahman), this issue only exists on Pixel phones. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series apparently shows the Circle to search feature even in split screen. The whistleblower, during his investigation, initially believed that the issue arose from the Android Assist API on which the feature is built. However, he found that this was not the case.

Here's what the Search Circle looks like in split-screen mode on a Pixel phone
Photo Credit: Android Authority/Mishaal Rahman

Later, while examining the Pixel's Launcher app in the latest Android 15 Beta 1.2, Rahman came across a flag, which allowed him access to enable Circle to Search even in split-screen mode. Based on this, the whistleblower claims that Google is likely working on a fix for the issue that was restricting Circle to Search from appearing. While the release date of the fix is ​​not known, it is believed that it could ship with the next update for Pixel smartphones.

Google Search Circle is a visual search tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to process the content displayed on the screen. It then runs it through Google Search to display the results. It can be used to explain a particular word or phrase, find out the price of a dress, learn more about a famous building, and more. The function can also be used to copy a block of text displayed on the screen.

The tech giant also plans to add more functionality to the feature. A report highlights that Google is working on adding a partial screenshot capability to the feature. Two new options, Copy and Share, are said to appear when selecting and highlighting a part of the screen. Tapping Copy reportedly takes you to the clipboard, which can then be edited using any photo editor app. Share allows users to share it directly with others using compatible third-party apps.