See It, Search It - Google Lens now lets you search inside YouTube Shorts

This new feature allows you to pinpoint video locations by simply circling landmarks within the YouTube app. Currently, it's exclusive to beta users.

Image: YouTube

Google's powerful search capabilities are continually expanding, now reaching deeper into new mediums. The tech giant is introducing a groundbreaking way to search for elements you spot within YouTube Shorts videos, seamlessly powered by Google Lens. This innovative feature is currently rolling out to select beta users.

In a recent official announcement on its support page, Google confirmed that Google Lens integration is making its way to YouTube Shorts for beta users in the coming weeks. This anticipated feature empowers you to effortlessly identify landmarks, objects, or even pinpoint the filming location directly from YouTube short videos. This represents a significant advancement for anyone who has ever wondered about the precise setting of a favorite video clip. However, Google has clarified a few important limitations: Google Lens search will not be available for YouTube Shorts that contain affiliate shopping links or any form of paid promotional products. Furthermore, you "won't see ads shown in the search results" for these Lens-powered queries.

Accessing this exciting new feature is straightforward, directly within the YouTube app while viewing YouTube Shorts. To find information about a product, landmark, or any other visible element in the video, simply pause the Short. You'll then notice the Google Lens icon appearing in the top menu. Tap it, and then draw a circle around the object you wish to investigate. Immediately, the Google Search engine springs into action, presenting relevant results. Google explains that these visually matched search results will be conveniently overlaid on the Shorts app interface, allowing you to easily return to your content. One notable restriction is that you won't be able to identify every individual's face, with the exception of recognizable public figures.

You can potentially access this feature as early as this week by enrolling in the beta program. This move by Google is part of a broader strategy to expand Google Lens's capabilities, as we've recently seen its integration with the Chrome Desktop browser and various built-in smartphone functionalities across devices like Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones. This continuous evolution of visual search technology is set to redefine how we interact with digital content.