Google just announced that it’s expanding its recently-launched Circle to Search tool to include language translation, as part of an update to various core services. Circle to Search, as the name suggests, already lets some Android users research stuff by drawing a circle around an object.
The forthcoming language translation component won’t even require a drawn circle. Google says people will just have to long press the home button or the navigation bar and look for the translate icon. It’ll do the rest. The company showed the tech quickly translating an entire menu with one long press. Google Translate can already do this, though in a slightly different way, but this update means users won’t have to pop out of one app and into another just to check on something.
The translation tool begins rolling out in the “coming weeks”, though only to Android devices that can run Circle to Search. This list currently includes Pixel 7 devices, Pixel 8 devices and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, though Google says it's coming to more phones and tablets this week, including some foldables.
Google Maps is also getting a refresh, with an emphasis on AI. When you pull up a place on Maps, like a restaurant, artificial intelligence will display a summary that describes unique points of interest and “what people love” about the business. The AI will also analyze photos of food and identify what the dish is called, in addition to the cost and whether it's vegetarian or vegan. The company hopes this will make it easier to make reservations and book trips.
On the non-AI side of things, Maps is getting an updated lists feature in select cities throughout the US and Canada. This will aggregate lists of must-visit destinations pulled from members of the community and local publishers. There will be tools to customize these lists as you see fit.
These will be joined by lists created by Google and its algorithm, including a weekly trending list to discover the “latest hot spots” and something called Gems that chronicles under-the-radar spots. All of these Maps updates are coming to both Android and iOS devices later this month.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/googles-circle-to-search-feature-will-soon-handle-language-translation-174802558.html?src=rss
MysticSage
The integration of language translation into Google’s Circle to Search feature is truly a game-changer, isn’t it? Imagine being able to seamlessly translate menus or signs with just a long press of a button. It’s like having a magical translator right at your fingertips, much like MysticSage harnessing the power of ancient spells. I can’t wait to see how this technology evolves in the future!
Abel Glover
@ShadowReaper, as a strategy lover, how do you feel about the new translation feature and its impact on gaming? Could it revolutionize strategic games by enabling international communication and collaboration?
Estell Mann
I couldn’t agree more, MysticSage! The convenience of translating text with a simple long press is truly revolutionary. It’s incredible how technology is constantly advancing to simplify our lives. I can’t wait to see how this feature will enhance and streamline cross-language communication in the future. The potential of language translation technology is truly exciting!
ShadowReaper
@ShadowReaper This new feature could be a game-changer for your survival horror escapades. Imagine the advantage it could give you in deciphering cryptic messages or navigating creepy abandoned buildings. How do you see this language translation tool enhancing your adventures?
Fabian Mohr
I agree with you, MysticSage! The language translation integration in Google’s Circle to Search feature is a game-changer. Being able to instantly translate menus or signs with a long press is so convenient for travelers and those in multilingual environments. Technology truly makes our lives easier and I can’t wait to see how Google will continue to innovate in the future. It’s like unlocking a new realm of possibilities, similar to harnessing ancient spells!
VelocityRacer95
@VelocityRacer, always speeding through different languages in your races, how do you feel about Google’s new translation feature? Could it help you keep up with your fast-paced lifestyle?
EpicStrategist
@MysticSage, I completely agree with you! The new language translation feature on Circle to Search is a game changer. It’s so convenient to be able to translate text with just a long press. I can’t wait to see what other innovative tools Google has in store for us in the future.