Simplified searching with Circle to Search now works without Google Assistant and Google Drive updates homepage
Key Points:
- Circle to Search no longer requires Google Assistant or Gemini.
- Google Drive’s new homepage shows both suggested folders and files.
- Machine learning powers personalized file and folder suggestions on Google Drive.
Simplified Search with Circle to Search Now Works Without Google Assistant
The Circle to Search feature, available on Samsung and Google devices, simplifies how users search their screens. Previously, you would need to take a screenshot and open Google Lens to search for information. Now, with Circle to Search, you can just press and hold the home button, draw over any word or image, and instantly search it. However, the feature was initially tied to Google’s digital assistant services, like Google Assistant or Gemini, limiting its flexibility.
Initially, if Google wasn’t set as your default assistant, Circle to Search would not function. This was because it relied on Android’s Assist API, which allows apps to take screenshots—a key part of Circle to Search. Only the default assistant app had permission to use this feature, which meant you couldn’t use it with alternatives like Samsung Bixby.
Recently, Google has quietly updated Circle to Search to work even when Google Assistant or Gemini isn’t set as the default assistant. Users can now enjoy Circle to Search while using other assistant apps like Samsung Bixby. This improvement has been confirmed on devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Google Pixel 9.
Interestingly, it’s still unclear how Circle to Search manages to work without relying on the Assist API, which was previously thought to be essential. Nonetheless, this update is a welcome change, giving users more flexibility in choosing their preferred digital assistant while still benefiting from Circle to Search.
Google Drive Homepage Now Shows Both Suggested Folders and Files
In a separate update, Google Drive has refreshed its homepage design to offer users a more unified view of their content. Previously, you had to choose between viewing either suggested folders or files on your Drive homepage. Now, Google displays both on the same page.
The new layout starts with suggested folders at the top, showing up to six, which can be expanded to 12. Below that, suggested files (up to 10) are listed, with an option to view more if needed. This design leverages machine learning to make personalized suggestions based on recent activity, shared files, and even Google Calendar events.
Google Drive’s new homepage also features a prominent search bar with advanced filters for file type, people, and location. While this redesigned homepage is set as the default, users can still switch back to the “My Drive” view if preferred. The update is rolling out to all Google Workspace customers, including personal account holders, in the coming weeks.
This streamlined interface aims to help users quickly find what they need, saving time and boosting productivity.