Google is rolling out a major update to Circle to Search, bringing deeper AI-driven results to Android phones. The feature first launched with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, allowing users to highlight items in videos, apps, and social media posts to search for more information. Until now, it relied mostly on Google’s standard image search. With the latest update, Circle to Search will begin using Google’s AI Mode for follow-up queries.
Reports from Android Authority confirm that the update has already begun reaching users, giving them access to richer, more detailed responses powered by Google’s AI system.
AI Mode has been appearing across Google’s searches for months, offering conversational breakdowns of results and links to supporting sources. It works similarly to ChatGPT, providing summaries and follow-up answers on nearly any topic.
Google previewed this transition back in July, but this is the first time the AI Mode rollout is widely visible. The update appears tied to version 16.47.49 of the Google app for Android.
Previously, users could still type questions into a traditional search bar after using Circle to Search. With the update, AI Mode now handles the entire process, from interpreting the highlighted image to answering follow-up questions.
Android Authority shared a video showing the new interface. Meanwhile, the Google app on devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra may still display the older version, indicating a gradual rollout with no confirmed completion timeline.
The expanded AI Mode is the latest enhancement to Circle to Search. Earlier this year, Google introduced a translation feature that enables users to translate menus and other on-screen text directly within the tool.
More users are expected to receive the AI-powered upgrade in the coming days as the rollout continues.
