Google removes lens shortcut from circle to search: Simpler UI but Fewer Visual Search Options

Google has recently made a significant change to its Circle to Search feature, removing the shortcut for Google Lens. This update follows a recent visual tweak, and while it streamlines the user interface, it also limits easy access to the popular visual search tool.
Previously, users could access Google Lens via a small ‘G’ logo located at the bottom of the Circle to Search field. This logo allowed for quick access to various Google features, including the Google app, voice search, and Lens, along with text query options. The Lens shortcut was particularly useful for those wanting to perform live visual searches directly from the Circle to Search interface. In addition to this, the song search feature, represented by a music note icon, was added recently alongside translation options.
With the latest update, however, Google has removed the Lens shortcut from this lineup, which could be seen as a regression. The removal means that users no longer have quick two-step access to Google Lens from any part of their phone. Although some Pixel phones offer a Lens shortcut on the homescreen in the bottom-right corner, other devices, and third-party launchers don’t have that convenience. To work around this, users can either place the Google Search widget on their home screens or download the standalone Google Lens app to regain easy access.
It’s unclear if this removal is due to a bug or an intentional change by Google to declutter the Circle to Search interface. Reducing the number of buttons from four to three does give the UI a cleaner look, but losing easy access to Google Lens on Android is a drawback for many users who rely on it for quick visual searches.
This update seems to have rolled out widely across both the stable and beta versions of the Google app, following a server-side change earlier this morning. Whether this shift is permanent or subject to further tweaks remains to be seen.
Trouble downloading Google Chrome on Windows? Here’s What’s Happening

If you’ve tried downloading Google Chrome on your Windows PC lately, you might have hit a snag. Many users are reporting that the installer won’t run after they grab it from the official site. Instead of launching, it just sits there, leaving people stuck and frustrated.
The problem seems tied to how Chrome’s download process works. Normally, you click the download button, get a small setup file, and it kicks off the installation. But for some, that setup file refuses to start. Experts think it could be due to Windows security settings blocking it, an antivirus program stopping it, or even a glitch on Google’s end with the file itself.
For now, there’s no official fix from Google, but people have found workarounds. One trick is to turn off your antivirus temporarily while downloading and running the installer—just be careful and turn it back on after. Another option is to download Chrome from a different source, like a trusted third-party site, though you should double-check it’s safe. Some also suggest tweaking Windows Defender settings to let the file through.
This issue popped up around March 25, 2025, and it’s unclear how widespread it is. If you’re facing this, you’re not alone—others are in the same boat, waiting for Google to sort it out. Until then, these quick fixes might get you browsing with Chrome again soon!
New Gemini 2.5 Pro: A sneak peek at Google’s latest experiment

Google has just rolled out an early version of Gemini 2.5 Pro, and it’s already making waves. This new model is still in testing, but it’s showing off some impressive skills. People who’ve tried it say it’s faster and smarter than earlier versions, especially when handling tricky questions or big chunks of information.
The Gemini 2.5 Pro is built to tackle all kinds of tasks—like writing, coding, and even figuring out complex stuff. What’s cool is how quick it responds, which makes it feel more helpful for everyday use. Google says this is just a starting point, and they’re working to make it even better based on what users think.
Right now, only a small group of testers can play with it through Google’s experimental platform. They’re digging into how it works with things like text, numbers, and code. Early feedback hints that it’s a step up from older models, though it’s not perfect yet. Some say it shines brightest when dealing with detailed or creative jobs.
Google hasn’t shared all the details about what’s under the hood, but they’re hinting at big upgrades in how it processes info. The goal? To make a tool that’s super sharp and easy to use for everyone. As testing goes on, we’ll likely hear more about what Gemini 2.5 Pro can do. For now, it’s an exciting glimpse at what’s coming next from Google!
Android
Android Auto’s new update gets Ready for Gemini

Google recently rolled out Android Auto version 14.0, and it’s paving the way for something big—Gemini integration. This update doesn’t bring flashy new features for users to play with right away, but it’s doing important behind-the-scenes work.
The main focus? Getting the app ready to team up with Google’s Gemini AI system. According to experts who peeked into the update’s code, Android Auto is setting up to use Gemini’s smarts down the road. This could mean better voice commands, sharper answers, or even a more helpful driving buddy.
For now, though, things look the same when you connect your phone to your car. The changes are mostly hidden, preparing for a future where Gemini takes the wheel—figuratively, of course!
This update also keeps Android Auto running smoothly with the latest Android phones. It fixes small bugs and makes sure everything works like it should.
While there’s no official word yet on when Gemini will fully join the party, this step shows Google’s big plans for smarter driving tech. If you’ve got Android Auto, your phone might already have this update—or it’ll show up soon through the Google Play Store. It’s a quiet one, but it’s laying the groundwork for exciting stuff ahead. So, next time you plug in, know your car’s system is getting a little brainier, even if it’s not showing off just yet!
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