Google Chrome now supports Circle to Search-like feature on PC, Chromebook

Google Chrome is adding a Circle to Search-like visual search functionality for PC and Chromebook users, allowing them to look up any object on the screen by precisely selecting it. The new tool is a part of the latest Google Chrome update for PC and Chromebooks, meaning testers can access it right away but those on stable builds must wait until the wider release.

Circle to Search on Google Chrome

Although it is not exactly Circle to Search, the new functionality works similarly. 9to5Google has reported the latest beta builds (version 127 and 128) have a feature called ‘drag to search’ that uses Google Lens to look up anything on the screen. It is available in the bookmarks bar and denoted by the Google Lens icon. You have to use your PC’s mouse or laptop’s trackpad to select an item or object on the screen, prompting Google Lens to search the internet for it.

According to screenshots posted on Reddit by users claiming they have access to the new ‘drag to search’ feature, the interface is identical to that of Circle to Search on select Android phones. The new feature is currently experimental, meaning Google may make changes before the stable release.

Google is also said to be working on several other features for the Chrome browser. They include a new background read-aloud mode for web pages, dubbed ‘Listen to this Page’. However, it is currently unclear what devices it will support. For now, the ‘drag to search’ option will be available on Windows PCs and Chromebooks, but there is no information on when the Chrome browser on macOS will receive the functionality.