Google’s AI has sneaked into the kitchen with options like Magic Editor or surround to search on the latest Google Pixel 8. This tool is powered by Gemini analyzes everything on the screen just by surrounding it with a circle. And now it can finally read QR codes, a development that saves a lot of work.

If we have a QR code in front of us, the mobile phone saves us from trouble, because all we have to do is point it at it using the camera app: it will read it instantly. But what if the QR code appears on the phone screen? The quickest thing was to take a screenshot and send it to Google Lens, a small hassle for something that can be reached with a touch. Google has thought of that.

Draw a circle over the QR code and instantly discover what it hides

The circle to search is very useful to locate any element that appears on the phone screen: when activated, the interface stops so that we can circle what we want to find. We can also mark the text to copy it to the clipboard and even translate it without needing Google Translate. Yes, definitely. There are still a limited number of areas to search on some Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and other select models.

As they discovered on Reddit and as we were able to discover on our Google Pixel 8 Pro, Rodea to search already includes the new QR code reader. It comes with the latest beta update of the Google app. And it works really well, you just have to follow these steps:

• Do you have a QR code on your mobile screen? To search, tap and hold the bottom navigation bar until the Rodea interface appears (if your mobile is compatible).
• Circle the QR code you want to read.
• The app will highlight the outline of the QR code and show you what text it hides on the screen.

• If it is a link, you can access it directly. You can also copy the text or add the WiFi network password: it all depends on what text is encoded in the QR in question.

This was one of the key functions that was not included in the tool until now, and we are glad that Google has fixed it: Saves a lot of work with codes that appear printed on the screen. And that’s not all: the search circle also solves math problems. Just follow the same process and circle the problem on the screen for the app to solve the problem.

Cover image | Ivan Linares

via | reddit

Xataka on Android | After using Android phones for ten years, I switched to iPhone three months ago. I’ve already made it clear which platform I’ll choose.

Xataka on Android | How to fix WiFi connection problems on Android mobile phone?