Google Lens has come a long way since its introduction in 2017, evolving into a powerful tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to offer an array of features designed to improve our ability to interact with the physical world through our smartphones. By leveraging computer vision, machine learning, and augmented reality (AR), Google Lens allows users to search and gather information about objects, text, and images they see in real time. Over time, Google has introduced several new features to enhance the overall experience, making Google Lens even more versatile and useful.
Here’s a look at some of the most exciting new features in Google Lens:
1. Multilingual Text Translation
One of the standout new features of Google Lens is the ability to translate text from images in real time. This functionality allows users to take a picture of any foreign text and get an instant translation. Whether you’re traveling abroad or just trying to read a sign in another language, Google Lens can instantly translate text into the language of your choice. Additionally, the translation feature now supports over 100 languages, making it more accessible for a wide range of users around the world.
How it works:
- Open Google Lens and point the camera at the text you wish to translate.
- Tap the “Translate” button that appears at the bottom of the screen.
- The translated text will be displayed on your phone in real-time.
This makes language barriers much easier to overcome, whether it’s for signs, menus, or documents.
2. Style Match for Fashion and Home Decor
Google Lens now offers a style match feature that allows users to identify and shop for clothing, furniture, and home decor items directly through the app. When you scan a piece of clothing or a piece of furniture, Google Lens will find similar items available for purchase online. This is particularly useful for fashion enthusiasts or interior designers looking for inspiration or trying to track down a specific item they’ve seen in a store or in a friend’s home.
How it works:
- Open Google Lens and point the camera at an item of clothing or furniture you want to match.
- Google Lens will identify the item and show similar products available for purchase from a variety of online retailers.
This feature has transformed the way users can shop, allowing them to visualize and discover new products directly through the app.
3. Google Lens in Google Photos – Visual Search Across Your Entire Library
Another exciting development is the integration of Google Lens into Google Photos. This integration makes it easier than ever to search for content within your photo library. By simply opening a photo in Google Photos and tapping the Lens icon, you can get detailed information about the objects, places, or people in your images, even after they’ve been captured.
How it works:
- Open Google Photos and select an image.
- Tap the Lens icon in the bottom toolbar to perform a visual search.
- Google Lens will highlight and provide relevant information on objects in the image, from famous landmarks to everyday items.
This feature enables users to get more out of their photo collections, whether they’re looking for additional context or trying to identify an object they’ve captured in the past.
4. AR-Enhanced Search for Landmarks and Monuments
Google Lens also introduced an AR-powered feature for identifying landmarks, monuments, and historical sites. When users point their camera at well-known structures, Google Lens provides augmented reality overlays with additional context, such as the name of the landmark, historical facts, visitor information, and even nearby attractions.
How it works:
- Point your phone at a landmark or monument.
- Google Lens will display a floating card with key information, including its history, facts, and even user reviews or opening hours.
This feature brings an added layer of interactivity, turning your phone into a tour guide that can provide real-time information about the places you visit.
5. Shopping with Google Lens – Price Comparison and Product Details
Google Lens has evolved into a comprehensive shopping tool. In addition to identifying products, users can now scan items to compare prices and view product reviews from multiple online stores. This feature is particularly useful when shopping in physical stores, as it allows you to quickly determine if a better price is available online.
How it works:
- Scan a product with Google Lens, such as a book, tech gadget, or piece of clothing.
- The app will display a list of online retailers offering the product and compare prices, including details like product specifications and reviews.
This feature streamlines the shopping experience by helping users find the best deals without having to browse multiple websites.
6. Real-Time Object Recognition and Information Retrieval
Google Lens has enhanced its ability to recognize and provide information about a variety of objects and things in the real world. You can scan objects such as animals, plants, food, or even text on posters, and Google Lens will provide detailed information about them. For example, it can identify a type of flower, suggest recipes based on ingredients, or tell you the breed of a dog.
How it works:
- Open Google Lens and point it at an object, like a flower or pet.
- The app will provide relevant details, such as the name of the object, care tips, or even related online resources.
This makes Google Lens an even more powerful tool for educational and everyday purposes, offering a deeper understanding of the world around you.
7. Interactive Lens with AR
A major leap forward for Google Lens is its integration with AR for more interactive experiences. For example, Google Lens now offers an immersive AR mode for items like furniture. When you scan furniture or home decor items, you can visualize how they will look in your space before making a purchase. The AR feature places 3D models of objects within your environment, allowing you to see how they fit into your home.
How it works:
- Scan a product like a piece of furniture or artwork.
- Use the AR feature to place a 3D model in your room through the camera view.
- Rotate and resize the object to get a sense of how it will look in your space.
This helps users make informed decisions, especially when buying furniture or decorations for their homes.
8. Object Selection with Enhanced Copy Text
Google Lens also allows users to select text from images and copy it directly into other apps or documents. This is especially useful when dealing with printed materials, documents, or screenshots that contain useful information like phone numbers, addresses, or quotes.
How it works:
- Point Google Lens at any text within an image.
- Select the text you want to copy and tap “Copy.”
- Paste the text into your preferred app, whether it's a note-taking app, email, or document.
This feature makes it easier to extract and reuse information from physical or digital images with a few simple taps.
Final Thoughts
With these new features, Google Lens continues to advance and redefine how we interact with the world around us. Whether it’s for shopping, traveling, education, or everyday tasks, Google Lens empowers users by providing real-time information and interactive experiences. As AI and augmented reality technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more innovative features to make Google Lens an indispensable tool for anyone looking to enhance their visual search and augmented reality experiences.