YouTube Shorts Gets Google Lens for Real-Time Visual Searches: Here’s How It Works

YouTube Shorts is rolling out Google Lens integration in beta that allows users to search for information directly from the video itself.

Published By: Madhav Malhotra | Published: May 30, 2025, 04:40 PM (IST)

YouTube just made Shorts way smarter. YouTube Shorts is rolling out Google Lens integration in Shorts. This makes searching for information straight from the video. This might not sound that cool but is actually a very useful addition. Also Read: Google Veo 3.1 Gets Vertical Video And High-Resolution Output: How To Try

For example, if you're watching a Short filmed in a location you're interested in visiting, you can select a landmark and ask Lens to identify it. Another situation is seeing something cool, like an animal or a dish, which can be identified directly using Lens without the need to type anything. This feature has started rolling out slowly and will mostly be launching in beta over the next few weeks. Also Read: YouTube Adds New Timer Feature To Help You Stop Scrolling Shorts All Day: How It Works

Also Read: YouTube Shorts Adds Product Stickers for Shopping: Everything You Need to Know

What You Should Know

Users won't see any ads during the initial beta phase of Lens. YouTube also said that Lens in Shorts isn't available for Shorts with YouTube Shopping affiliate links or paid product promotions. Another important point YouTube has conveyed is that Lens won't use facial recognition on private individuals. So, people worried about privacy and security are completely safe.

How to Use Lens on YouTube Shorts

  • Open YouTube on your phone and hit Shorts at the bottom.

  • Play a Short, then tap the screen to pause.

  • Tap the Lens icon up top.

  • Agree to the terms (or just tap outside the box to dismiss).

  • Draw, tap, or highlight anything on the paused video to start your search.

  • Want to translate captions? Tap translate in the bottom right.

  • To exit, simply tap the X in the upper-left corner or swipe down to return to the video.

    • YouTube has been working on multiple features and recently announced new tools designed to help creators publish engaging short form videos. This new Lens addition is clearly a step toward pushing their Shorts platform further and making content more engaging for the audience.

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