Files by Google Set to Introduce Innovative AI Features for Enhanced Image and Text Insights

Liam Alexander 15 Aug 2024

Recent developments suggest that Files by Google is poised to introduce new artificial intelligence features aimed at enhancing user experience. A report indicates that the app is currently testing a variant of the Circle to Search function, which will specifically target image searches. Moreover, the Files app is also expected to implement an AI summary capability designed to process text files. Additionally, earlier insights hinted that Google Chrome for Desktop might roll out a visual lookup feature powered by Google Lens.

As per information from 9to5Google, the Files by Google application appears to be integrating several AI capabilities. The first of these is the Circle to Search feature, which was identified during an analysis of the most recent beta version of the app. Distinct from its counterparts found on Pixel devices and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, this iteration seems to be a simplified form of the Circle to Search functionality.

The newly introduced feature reportedly focuses exclusively on images when viewed within the app. Users can find a fresh floating action button near the bottom when opening an image in full-screen mode. A screenshot circulating from the report indicates that this icon is positioned directly above the edit action button, serving the purpose of controlling the feature.

Two separate icons are mentioned in relation to Circle to Search; the first resembles a magnifying glass adorned with a sparkle, which aligns with the smart search tool present in the app. The second symbol reflects the traditional Google Lens logo. Since there are no definitive icons designated for Circle to Search yet, it seems the organization is still in the experimentation phase.

Engaging with this icon is said to transition the interface into Circle to Search mode, causing other elements of the Files user-interface to fade away. Users can then encircle a section of the image to initiate an instantaneous Internet search, as outlined in the report. However, it appears that this feature has not yet been made available to beta testers.

The report further detailed an additional AI feature that has commenced rollout to a select group of beta users. Files by Google is rumored to be capable of generating AI summaries for various text-based file formats, including PDF, Docx, TXT, and others. According to the publication, this function relies on the on-device Gemini Nano technology, suggesting it may be a feature exclusive to the Pixel 8 series.