You Will Soon Be Able to Search for Things with Google Lens in YouTube Shorts

YouTube is set to integrate Google Lens into its Shorts platform soon. This feature will allow users to search for items they see in Shorts using Google Lens. By pausing a Short, users can select any object, place, or text on the screen to gain more information about it.

For instance, if a Short features a well-known landmark, viewers can use Lens to identify it and learn about its cultural or historical significance.

How to Use Google Lens in YouTube Shorts

To utilise this feature, users should open the YouTube app and navigate to Shorts by tapping the Shorts tab or selecting a Short from the home screen. Once there, pause the Short by tapping the screen. Then, tap the "Lens" option located in the top menu. Users can draw, highlight, or tap on any item they wish to search.

The first time Google Lens is used, a terms and conditions message will appear; users can dismiss it by tapping anywhere on the screen. To translate text displayed on-screen, tap the "translate" button found in the lower right corner. Exiting search results is simple: tap the "X" at the top left or swipe down on the panel.

Ad-Free Experience During Beta Phase

During this beta phase, YouTube has stated that Lens search results will remain free of advertisements. However, this feature will not work with Shorts that include Shopping affiliate links or paid product promotions. The beta version of this feature is being gradually introduced to all users this week.

Once activated, Lens will show matching search results directly over the video. Users can easily return to watching the Short after viewing these results. This seamless integration aims to enhance user engagement by providing additional context and information without interrupting their viewing experience.

This new addition reflects YouTube's ongoing efforts to improve user interaction and provide more value through its platform. By incorporating Google Lens into Shorts, YouTube is offering an innovative way for users to explore content further and satisfy their curiosity instantly.