Google enhances Search and Maps with new Circle to Search features and redesigned tools
Top 3 Key Points:
- Circle to Search Expands: Google Lens in Chrome is set to gain new features similar to Circle to Search on mobile.
- Google Search Tools Update: The stopwatch and timer tools on Google Search have been visually revamped for better usability.
- Google Maps Pin Redesign: Google Maps introduces new pin shapes and colors for a cleaner and more consistent look.
Google is rolling out several updates to its popular tools, enhancing both the Circle to Search (CtS) feature and making visual improvements to Google Search and Google Maps.
Circle to Search (CtS) Expands to Chrome
Google’s Circle to Search (CtS) has been one of the most significant updates of the year. Initially launched on the Pixel 8 series, CtS has gradually been introduced to other devices. This feature allows users to highlight elements on their screen to perform searches, with added capabilities like instant translation, barcode scanning, and music identification.
Recently, Google has been working to integrate similar functionality into Chrome via Google Lens. The Lens tool, accessible directly from the address bar, lets users select and search for images or text on their screen. While it currently offers basic search results and text translation, Google is reportedly developing a feature that will allow users to save or share their circled search queries as images, similar to the mobile CtS experience. This update, highlighted by Chrome researcher @Leopeva64 on X (formerly Twitter), suggests that Chrome users will soon have an even more robust search tool at their fingertips.
Google Search Timer and Stopwatch Redesigned
Google has also revamped the built-in timer and stopwatch tools on its Search platform. The timer now features a light blue background that stands out against the white search results page, with quick shortcuts to add time in increments of 30 seconds, 1 minute, or 5 minutes. The stopwatch, on the other hand, now has a circular indicator and a yellow background when paused, mirroring the design of Android’s Clock app. These updates are designed to enhance usability, particularly on desktops, where these tools are most commonly used.
Google Maps Introduces New Pin Designs
In addition to search enhancements, Google Maps is rolling out redesigned pins with new shapes and colors. The traditional pin shape has been replaced with a shorter, more rounded design that features a white background and an inner circle icon. Some pins, like those for museums, have also changed colors, shifting from teal to purple, while others have received subtler tweaks. These changes, which are already visible on Android, iOS, and the web, aim to provide a more streamlined and visually appealing experience.
With these updates, Google continues to refine its tools, making them more intuitive and visually cohesive for users across its platforms.