Files by Google, the company’s file browsing and management app, is reportedly testing new artificial intelligence (AI) features.
New AI Features in Files by Google
A report by 9to5Google suggests that the app will receive a version of the Circle to Search feature. This feature, while still in testing, is currently limited to images within the app. Additionally, Files by Google might gain an AI summary feature designed for files containing text. Interestingly, this development follows earlier reports that Google Chrome for Desktop might soon introduce a visual lookup feature using Google Lens.
Circle to Search in Action
Circle to Search was first noticed during an APK teardown of the latest beta version of the Files app. Unlike its implementation on Pixel smartphones or the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, this version of Circle to Search seems more streamlined. When users view an image in full-screen mode within the app, they might notice a new floating action button (FAB) near the bottom of the screen. According to screenshots shared by 9to5Google, this icon is present just above the edit FAB.
The report also notes the use of two different icons for Circle to Search. One icon resembles a magnifying glass with a sparkle, commonly used for smart search within the app. The other is the familiar Google Lens icon. Since these icons are still in use, it appears that Google is experimenting with them as the feature develops further.
Tapping the icon triggers the Circle to Search mode. When this happens, the entire window opens up in Circle to Search mode, and all other user-interface elements in the Files app disappear. This allows the user to circle any part of the image to launch an Internet search instantly. This feature is yet to be available to beta users. Its potential for enhancing image searches within the app is significant. As Google continues to refine these AI features, Files by Google may soon offer more powerful tools for managing files.
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