Due to a new feature in Android 15 DP2, users can now choose between the old persistent taskbar from Android 12L and the newer transient taskbar from Android 13 QPR2.
Google needed to ensure that Circle to Search would function properly regardless of the chosen taskbar style. Google’s Circle to Search is a convenient feature allowing users to search for items on their screen with a simple tap and hold.
Initially released on the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, Google has been working to expand this feature to more devices, recently introducing it to the Pixel Tablet. However, there was a minor issue with its functionality on the Pixel Tablet, as it did not cooperate with the action key on Android 15.
The action key, located on the Android taskbar, opens the floating app drawer when pressed. This button can be accessed by swiping up on the navigation handle of the Pixel Tablet or Pixel Fold. The problem arose because the navigation handle disappears when switching to the persistent taskbar, preventing users from using Circle to Search unless reverting to the original taskbar.
Fortunately, the issue has been resolved with Android 15 Beta 3. You can now easily activate Circle to Search by holding down the action key, no matter which taskbar style you have selected. Upon starting up Android 15 Beta 3 and switching to the persistent taskbar, a notification will inform you about this new feature, as shown in the screenshots provided.
This update is particularly beneficial for individuals who favor the persistent taskbar as it removes the necessity to constantly switch back and forth in order to utilize Circle to Search. Moreover, Android 15 Beta 3 has also introduced split-screen functionality for Circle to Search, allowing users to access it while having multiple apps open on their screen.
