A new set of AI-enhanced functionalities is on the horizon for Chrome on desktop, designed to streamline product searches online. This upcoming suite will consist of three distinct features, with the initial one reinventing Google Lens to operate similarly to the Circle to Search feature found in Pixel 8 devices.
As detailed in a recent announcement, users can activate this tool by clicking its icon located in the browser’s address bar, allowing for object selection directly from their screen. Once an item is clicked, it becomes highlighted while corresponding visual search results emerge within a side panel through Google Search. The announcement mentions that users will be able to refine their searches using multisearch options “by color, brand, or specific attributes.” Furthermore, thanks to Gemini technology, it will be possible to pose “follow-up questions” for deeper insights into any topic.
Additionally, users may receive an AI-generated overview summarizing relevant information based on their queries; however, its presentation varies depending on user input. This feature has recently been observed briefly during Chrome’s beta testing phase and was deemed ready for deployment by Google after its short stint in beta.
The tech giant highlighted that activating Google Lens doesn’t require using the icon at all times; users can also access it via a right-click menu or through the three-dot menu adjustments.
Enhanced Product Comparison
In the weeks ahead, Chrome plans to introduce Tab Compare—a tool enabling users to consolidate various tabs showcasing similar products into a single interface while generating AI-driven descriptions for each item. For instance, consider someone searching for portable Bluetooth speakers: they could find three different models from assorted brands displayed together with essential details like price points, battery longevity, weight specifications alongside concise summaries of each product.
