In an exciting development, Google’s Pixel phones are rumored to be getting split-screen support for Circle to Search, allowing users to utilize this feature while running two apps side by side on their screens.
The discovery was made by Mishaal Rahman, an Android expert, while exploring the Pixel Launcher app bundled with the Android 15 Beta 1.2 release. Rahman found a flag that suggests Pixel phones might soon have access to Circle to Search in split-screen mode.
Circle to Search, which was initially introduced on the Galaxy S24 series before making its way to Google’s Pixel devices, has become popular among users who appreciate its convenient and swift way of searching for information by simply circling their screens.
Currently, Pixel phones lack the ability to use Circle to Search in split-screen mode, which is an unusual restriction when compared to compatible Samsung phones. This limitation potentially indicates a development bug rather than an intentional decision made by Google.
One interesting observation pointed out by Rahman is that Circle to Search is integrated into the Google app. This means that changing the default digital assistant from Google to another service may cause the feature to stop working. However, it was later discovered that this restriction is unrelated to Android’s Assist API.
Pixel users who enjoy multitasking and desire a fast search option have been frustrated by the inability to use Circle to Search in split-screen mode. But the wait won’t be long, as Android 15 is expected to be released in the fall, bringing with it the much-anticipated feature.
The addition of split-screen support for Circle to Search will greatly enhance its usability, allowing users to search for information without interrupting their multitasking flow. Additionally, there are hints that “Copy Image” and “Share Image” options might also be coming to Circle to Search, further expanding its functionality.
Stay updated with the latest news and developments in the world of Android by following Android Central, your trusted companion in the Android ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Circle to Search?
Circle to Search is a feature that allows users to search for information by circling their screens. It was initially introduced on the Galaxy S24 series and later made its way to Google’s Pixel devices.
2. Which phones currently have access to Circle to Search in split-screen mode?
Currently, only compatible Samsung phones have the ability to use Circle to Search in split-screen mode. Pixel phones lack this feature.
3. Why do Pixel phones currently lack Circle to Search in split-screen mode?
The article suggests that the lack of Circle to Search in split-screen mode for Pixel phones may be due to a development bug rather than an intentional decision made by Google.
4. What was the interesting observation made by Mishaal Rahman?
The interesting observation made by Mishaal Rahman is that Circle to Search is integrated into the Google app. Changing the default digital assistant from Google to another service may cause the feature to stop working.
5. When can we expect split-screen support for Circle to Search on Pixel phones?
Android 15 is expected to be released in the fall, and it is anticipated that this update will bring split-screen support for Circle to Search to Pixel phones.
Key Terms and Definitions
– Pixel Phones: A line of smartphones developed by Google.
– Split-Screen Mode: A feature that allows users to run two apps side by side on their screens.
– Circle to Search: A feature that enables users to search for information by circling their screens.
– Android 15: An upcoming version of the Android operating system.
– Digital Assistant: A virtual assistant that provides information and performs tasks based on voice commands or text input.
Suggested Related Links
– Android Central: Stay updated with the latest news and developments in the world of Android by following Android Central, your trusted companion in the Android ecosystem.