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How to Enable Circle to Search on Pixel and Samsung

Step-by-step guide to turn on Circle to Search on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones so you can search anything on your screen without switching apps.

October 17, 2026 Yum News

Circle to Search lets you look up text, images, or objects on your Android screen with a simple long-press. It works on supported Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices without opening a separate browser. Once enabled, you stay in your current app while Google returns results.

This guide covers the exact setup steps for both brands, how to use the feature, and what to do if it does not appear.

Person holding a smartphone and looking at the screen

Confirm your phone supports Circle to Search

Circle to Search is available on select Pixel and Galaxy models running a recent Android version. Pixel phones starting with the Pixel 6 series generally include it after a system update. Samsung Galaxy S21 and later, plus many Fold, Flip, and Tab models, support it with One UI 6.1 or higher.

Open the Settings app and search for “Circle to Search.” If the option appears, your device is compatible. If it does not, check for a system update first. On Pixel, go to Settings > System > System update. On Galaxy, go to Settings > Software update.

You also need Google set as the default digital assistant and an internet connection for results to load.

Enable Circle to Search on Google Pixel

Pixel phones often enable the feature by default after an update. Still verify the toggle:

Open the Settings app.
Tap Display & touch, then Navigation mode.
Select either Gesture navigation or 3-button navigation.
Tap the gear icon next to your chosen mode.
Turn on the Circle to Search switch.

If the switch is missing, update the Google app from the Play Store and restart your phone. Sign in with a Google account if you have not already.

Enable Circle to Search on Samsung Galaxy

Samsung places the control under the navigation settings:

Open the Settings app.
Tap Display, then Navigation bar.
Scroll to the bottom of the screen.
Toggle Circle to Search to On.

The same switch works for both gesture and button navigation. On some One UI versions the label reads “Hold home to search” or “Hold handle to search.” Enable that option if you see it instead.

After turning it on, the first long-press may show a short confirmation prompt. Accept it to finish setup.

Close-up of an Android smartphone screen showing settings

How to use Circle to Search

With the feature enabled, activate it from almost any app:

On 3-button navigation, long-press the Home button.
On gesture navigation, long-press the navigation handle at the bottom of the screen.

A search bar and animation appear. Circle, highlight, scribble, or tap the area you want to search. Results load below or in an overlay. You can type a follow-up question in the search field without leaving the screen.

The tool works in browsers, social apps, camera viewfinders, and most other apps that allow screen capture. Some secure or copyright-protected apps block it.

Fix common problems

If the long-press does nothing:

Confirm Google is the default digital assistant under Settings > Apps > Default apps > Digital assistant app.
Update the Google app and Google Play services.
Check that “Use screenshot” or similar screen access permission is on for the assistant.
Restart the phone after changing the toggle.

On Samsung, also verify you are running One UI 6.1 or later. On Pixel, ensure the system is fully updated. If the option still does not appear, your specific model may not yet support the feature.

Tips for better results

Pinch to zoom before circling small text or fine details. For product searches, circle the item cleanly so the visual match is accurate. Combine it with Google Lens by taking a screenshot if Circle to Search is unavailable in a particular app.

Pair this visual search with other privacy tools. See our guide on how to enable Private DNS on Android for encrypted DNS on the same device.

Conclusion

Enabling Circle to Search takes less than a minute on supported Pixel and Galaxy phones. Once the toggle is on, a long-press turns any screen content into a search. Keep the Google app updated and the assistant permissions correct so the feature stays reliable.