How to Use Android’s Circle to Search Feature on Chrome Desktop: ‘Drag to Search’ Explained
Key Notes
- The ‘Drag to Search’ feature enhances the browsing experience by integrating Google Lens.
- Available initially on Chrome Canary, it will roll out to more stable versions soon.
- Users can quickly translate or copy text while using this feature.
Unlock the Power of Drag to Search: A Modern Browsing Feature
As technology evolves, so does our interaction with it. Google’s ‘Drag to Search’ feature for Chrome desktop amplifies the search experience, allowing users to utilize the capabilities of Google Lens seamlessly. This guide will walk you through essential steps to set up and effectively use this groundbreaking feature.
Mastering Drag to Search on Google Chrome
Step 1: Ensure You’re Using Chrome Canary
To get started with Drag to Search, first confirm that you’re on Chrome Canary, version 128 or above. You can download it from Chrome Canary.
Step 2: Access the Overflow Menu
Click the three-dot icon located in the upper-right corner of your Chrome browser to open the menu.
Step 3: Engage Search with Google Lens
Select the new Search with Google Lens option from the overflow menu to activate the feature.
Step 4: Start the Dragging Process
A prompt will appear urging you to “Select anything to search with Google Lens”, and the cursor will change to a crosshair. This signals that you’re ready to search.
Step 5: Highlight the Desired Object
Drag the cursor to form a box around the item you wish to search. Upon releasing, the object will be highlighted, making it clear what you’re inquiring about.
Step 6: Retrieve the Search Results
Once you release the mouse button, search results will appear on the right side of the window, showcasing both textual and visual matches for your query.
Step 7: Use the Address Bar for Quick Searches
Alternatively, you can click the address bar to access the Google Lens icon, offering the same search functionality without using the crosshair method.
Bonus Method: Copy or Translate Text with Ease
Using ‘Drag to Search’, you can interact with selected text directly for translation or copying:
1. Drag the crosshair around the text as before, then click Translate to receive instant translations.
2. If interested in copying, select Select text followed by Copy to save it to your clipboard.
Step 1: Pin the Lens Icon for Quick Access
For easier navigation, you can pin the Google Lens icon to your browser toolbar. After searching for an object, click the ‘Pin’ icon next to the results to add it directly to your toolbar for swift access.
Additional Tips for Optimal Use
- Ensure your Chrome Canary is updated regularly to access the latest features.
- Experiment with selecting varying types of content for unique results.
- Utilize the translate feature for instantaneous language comprehension while browsing.
Summary
The ‘Drag to Search’ feature significantly enhances the Google Chrome desktop experience by integrating AI capabilities through Google Lens. With simple steps, users can search for, translate, and copy text directly from their screens, dramatically improving efficiency and usability.
Conclusion
As the ‘Drag to Search’ feature transitions to a stable version, embracing this innovative tool will undoubtedly improve your browsing experience. Stay tuned for updates and explore its capabilities to enhance your online interactions.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is ‘Drag to Search’ in Google Chrome?
‘Drag to Search’ is a feature that integrates Google Lens into the browser, allowing users to highlight objects on their screen for instant search results.
How do I enable ‘Drag to Search’ on Chrome?
You can enable ‘Drag to Search’ by using Chrome Canary. Open the overflow menu, select ‘Search with Google Lens’, and follow the prompts to start using it.