A major AI-powered feature called Circle to Search was recently announced at Samsung’s Unpacked event for the Galaxy S24 Ultra. However, Google has surprised everyone by releasing this feature today on Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, along with other AI-focused updates.
After Samsung’s event, Google shared a blog post explaining Circle to Search’s functionality and device availability. Although Samsung primarily highlighted its availability on the Galaxy S24, Google announced that it would also be available on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro by January 31st, the official launch date of the S24 series.
While it was expected for Circle to Search to eventually reach other Android devices since it is powered by Google, Samsung could have still celebrated being the “first on Galaxy S24.” However, Google seems to have changed its timeline and is now rolling out this feature to all Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices today, six days ahead of the S24 series launch.
Google’s Pixel January Feature drop introduces Circle to Search along with three other features: the ability to measure body temperature, Magic Compose, and Photomoji on the Pixel 3a+.
The update allows Pixel 8 Pro users in the United States to use their device’s thermometer app to measure temperatures through a simple forehead scan. The results can be saved to a Fitbit profile. On the other hand, Magic Compose is an AI-powered tool that helps users draft messages in different styles, whether it’s for a professional, concise, or Shakespearean tone.
Photomoji is another new addition that enables users to select any photo from their phone’s library and create a corresponding reaction to use during conversations. This feature is being added to the Pixel 3a+.
These features join the previously announced Quick Share and Seamless Audio Switching. Quick Share allows Pixel users to easily share content with nearby devices, while Seamless Audio Switching ensures automatic connectivity between Pixel devices and Pixel Buds Pro.
With this update, the Pixel 8 Pro has caught up with the new Galaxy S24 Ultra in terms of features, even before the S24 is released. The Pixel 8 Pro already has a Google equivalent to the live translation feature showcased by Samsung. It can read and translate content in Chrome and offers Live Translate for live text conversations and videos. Additionally, it can translate signs, menus, and more through the Pixel camera.
However, it’s important to note that the Galaxy still holds one exclusive feature: integration with Instagram.