Circle to Search has been my favorite feature since its debut with the Galaxy S24. A quick scribble and I can search anything on my screen via the web. Now, Circle to Search is available on Nothing smartphones, including the Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus models.
Nothing, in a community announcement, mentioned that Circle to Search is now available on Nothing OS 3.0, based on Android 15. Note that OS 3.0 was launched earlier, back in October 2024, when we tested all its new features. However, Circle to Search wasn’t available then and has only been introduced now after additional testing, the brand stated.
Nothing Phones That Support the Feature
To get started with Circle to Search, ensure your phone is on the latest Nothing OS version 3.0, the build number should be:
- Phone (2): Pong-V3.0-241207-0124
- Phone (2a): Pacman-V3.0-241210-2057
- Phone (2a) Plus: PacmanPro-V3.0-241126-1448 (Beta build)
You can check your current build number in Settings > About phone > Software info (tap the picture of the phone)> Build number.
How to Turn On and Use Circle to Search
After updating to the latest available software, follow the steps below to enable the feature:
- Open Settings on your Nothing phone.
- Navigate to Special features > Gestures > Navigation mode.
- Here, tap on Circle to Search.
Once you have enabled Circle to Search, simply touch and hold the navigation bar at the bottom of your screen. You can then circle around any text or object on your screen to search for it via Google Lens. This will work only when your navigation bar is not hidden. If you’re using the traditional three-button navigation, hold and press the home button.
Try rebooting your phone if the feature doesn’t work or if you can’t find the option. Other Nothing smartphones, including the Phone (2a) sold in Japan, will support Circle to Search after a future NOS 3.0 update.
