According to Nothing's official community update released on December 26, 2024, Circle to Search functionality is now available for Nothing Phone (2), Phone (2a), and Phone (2a) Plus devices through the Android 15 update. The deployment follows successful additional testing of the feature across these models.
The feature expansion arrives eleven months after Google initially introduced Circle to Search on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices in January 2024. The initial launch occurred on January 31, 2024, marking a significant integration period before reaching Nothing's device ecosystem.
The functionality requires specific build versions for each device model. According to Nothing's documentation, users must have build "Pong-V3.0-241207-0124" for Phone (2), "Pacman-V3.0-241210-2057" for Phone (2a), and "PacmanPro-V3.0-241126-1448" for Phone (2a) Plus. The Phone (2a) Plus currently receives the feature through a beta build, while other models access it through stable releases.
The feature implementation varies based on the device's navigation configuration. Users utilizing three-button navigation activate Circle to Search through a long press of the home button. For those employing gesture navigation, activation occurs through an extended press on the navigation bar. Nothing's documentation emphasizes that the navigation bar must remain visible for proper functionality.
Users can access Circle to Search settings through a specific path in the device interface: Settings > Special features > Gestures > Navigation mode > Circle to Search. The feature necessitates the latest Nothing OS 3.0 version, with build number verification available under Settings > About phone > Software info > Build number.
Circle to Search enables users to interact with on-screen content through multiple input methods. According to the implementation documentation, users can circle elements, tap content, or highlight text to initiate searches. This functionality maintains consistency with the feature's implementation across other Android devices.
Nothing indicates expanded compatibility for additional devices in forthcoming releases. The company specifically mentioned future support for the Japanese variant of Phone (2a) through upcoming Nothing OS 3.0 builds. This statement suggests potential compatibility with Nothing Phone (1), though specific timelines remain undefined.
Nothing's documentation addresses potential activation issues, recommending device reboots if users encounter difficulties locating or enabling the Circle to Search function. This approach aligns with standard troubleshooting protocols for feature implementations across Android devices.
The integration of Circle to Search into Nothing's device ecosystem represents a significant feature parity achievement with major Android manufacturers. The implementation follows the feature's established presence on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, introduced earlier in 2024.
Users must maintain current software versions to access the functionality. The feature's availability depends on successful installation of Nothing OS 3.0, based on Android 15, with specific build numbers required for each device model. This technical requirement ensures consistent feature performance across the device lineup.