AI
Google to add rainbow effects to Circle to Search feature
Google’s Circle to Search feature lets users search for information by drawing a circle around something on their screen. Recently, Google revamped the Circle to Search feature and now is about to get a colorful makeover.
The new update of the Google app (version 15.47.26.sa.arm64 beta) has recently been spotted via AndroidAuthority. It shows that Google is adding new colors to make the feature more visually exciting.
In the current version of Circle to Search, when you activate it, a shimmering animation covers the screen, followed by a plain white circle around the object you want to search. But the new update will replace the shimmering effect with a colorful rainbow animation.
Instead of just a white circle, the outline will reportedly have shifting colors to make the whole experience look more dynamic and fun. Notably, this colorful change seems to be inspired by a similar feature in Apple’s Intelligence, which uses rainbow effects in its interface.
However, the new design doesn’t change the functionality of Circle to Search but it will definitely make the tool more visually appealing.
While we don’t know exactly when the update will be available to all users, it’s clear that Google is working on making Circle to Search a more colorful and enjoyable experience.
Samsung Galaxy users can now enjoy Google’s revamped Circle to Search design
AI
Samsung Apps to become smarter with advanced Gemini AI features
Samsung users might soon get a big upgrade to how they use their devices. Gemini is set to gain more control over Samsung’s stock apps, including Clock, Notes, Reminders, and Calendar. Galaxy users could soon do things like set alarms, create reminders, update notes, or schedule events, all with their voices.
This new feature will work with Android 16‘s App Functions, which allows Gemini to perform tasks inside Samsung apps for you. For example, you could tell Gemini to “Create an alarm for 10 AM” or “Add a note about my party” and it would do it directly in the Samsung Clock or Notes app.
Recently, Assemble Debug found references to the App Functions library inside the Samsung Reminders app. These codes indicate that Gemini will soon be able to manage tasks such as creating, deleting, or updating reminders, alarms, and notes.
The new integration is possible because of a special Android permission that lets Gemini, as a system assistant, control different apps on your phone.
While these features aren’t live yet, they’re expected to come once Android 16 is officially released. Once available, Gemini could become a powerful tool for managing your day-to-day tasks across Samsung apps, all through voice commands.
Right now, we’re still waiting to see when Android 16 will be released. Gemini could soon be more useful than ever in helping you stay organized and manage your Samsung device.
Notably, Android 16 reportedly has a codenamed Baklava, which will be released earlier than usual. Instead of the usual Q3 release, it will now come in Q2 2025. The exact date for the Android 16 rollout was unclear at first, but it now appears to be set for June 2025.
Android 16 to make Quick Settings access easier with one-finger swipe
AI
Samsung’s strategy of ‘AI for All’ for smarter devices, better life
As AI becomes an important part of daily life, Samsung is making it even better with its “AI for All” idea. This idea aims to make devices like smartphones, TVs, and home appliances smarter with the help of AI to make our lives easier and more connected.
The Korean tech giant uses on-device AI, which works directly on the device, without needing the internet or cloud services. This leads to faster responses, more privacy, and no need for a network connection.
Samsung has been working on on-device AI for many years. Today, its Galaxy AI helps people use their smartphones and tablets in smarter ways. It can translate conversations in real time across 20 languages. It also translates messages and web pages.
For Neo QLED 8K TVs, Samsung uses AI to improve what you see and hear. The AI processor in the 2024 model analyzes each picture and sound to make the TV’s visuals clearer and the sound sharper.
To make on-device AI work efficiently, Samsung focuses on optimizing AI models. This includes reducing the size of AI models through techniques like model compression and knowledge distillation. These technologies allow them to run faster without draining device resources.
Moreover, the company has developed patented technology that is expected to assist quick inference on low-end devices without an NPU to broaden AI applications.
Samsung’s expertise in both hardware and software helps it create smart devices that work well. By combining in-house development with partnerships, Samsung is setting a new standard for AI in everyday devices.
One UI 7 redefines Samsung Phone app with revamped icon, new features
AI
Google bringing ‘AI Mode’ for a smarter search experience
Google is working on a new feature called “AI Mode” for the Google Search app on Android. This feature aims to make the way we use Google Search more interactive and conversational.
The feature is currently in beta but it may be accessible through a new tab in the app, spotted via 9to5Google. This tab could replace one of the current sections like Home, Search, and Saved on the app’s bottom bar. There’s also a “wink” symbol in the code that hints at a fun and engaging way to access AI Mode.
Currently, the Google app offers basic voice search, where you can speak a query and get results. However, AI Mode promises to take this further by allowing users to interact with Google Search more naturally.
In addition to voice input, you’ll be able to use photos to ask questions, either by taking a new picture or uploading an existing one.
AI Mode will also offer the ability to ask follow-up questions and interrupt Google’s responses. This will make the search experience feel more like a conversation, rather than just getting one set of answers.
The feature is currently under testing and may soon be available with a new update. Stay tuned.