YouTube is rolling out a new feature that integrates Google Lens into its Shorts platform, allowing users to search for information about objects, landmarks, and text directly from the videos they watch. This enhancement aims to make short-form content more interactive and informative.
How It Works?
While watching a Short on the YouTube mobile app, users can pause the video and tap the Lens icon in the top menu.They can then highlight or tap on any item within the frame to initiate a search. Google Lens will overlay relevant search results on the video, providing additional context without requiring users to leave the app.

Key Features:
- Visual Search: Identify objects, landmarks, animals, and more directly from Shorts.
- Text Translation: Translate on-screen text in real-time, enhancing accessibility for global audiences.
- AI Overviews: Access concise summaries generated by artificial intelligence for quick information.
- Ad-Free Experience: During the beta phase, search results will not include advertisements.
Limitations
The Lens feature will not be available on Shorts containing YouTube Shopping affiliate links or paid product promotions.Additionally, while Google Lens does not use biometric facial recognition, it may identify notable public figures.
This integration is currently in beta and is being gradually rolled out to iOS and Android users. It represents a significant step in enhancing user engagement by bridging the gap between visual content and information retrieval.
Discussion about this post