Do Not These Google Search features

Google Search extends beyond merely retrieving websites. It is equipped with numerous useful functions that extend beyond fundamental browsing.

Google incorporates useful capabilities directly within the search bar, ranging from assistance with mathematical difficulties to Gemini integration. I have utilized several of these features for an extended period, and they have facilitated time savings and streamlined my digital existence. Regardless of whether you are a student, an avid traveler, or an enthusiast of innovative techniques, these Google Search functionalities are indispensable.

Utilize operators for enhanced outcomes

There may be occasions when you find it challenging to locate precisely what you seek on Google. Despite Google providing operators for years, many individuals are unaware of how to utilize them effectively. These operators provide more accurate findings, facilitate time efficiency, and enable the discovery of concealed insights.

1. Quotation marks (" ") facilitate the identification of precise matches. For instance, ["top artificial intelligence applications 2025"]

2. The minus character (-) omits particular terms or keywords from your search. For instance, enter [best smartphones -Android] to omit Android from the results.

3. The asterisk (*) functions as a wildcard when the specific word or phrase is unknown. For instance, you may input [strawberry * forever] to locate Strawberry Fields Forever by The Beatles.

4. The AND/OR Boolean operators facilitate the combination or separation of search terms. For instance, [freelance OR full-time employment opportunities].

5. The Site: operator enables the retrieval of results from a designated website. For instance, [site: Pinterest.com home decoration concepts].

These operators can be employed to refine the results according to your preferences.

Rapidly ascertain streaming accessibility

Many of us have encountered circumstances in which we desire to view a specific movie or show but are unaware of its streaming availability. Instead than individually exploring the libraries of Netflix or Prime Video, I utilize Google's integrated feature to find streaming material. To view The Maid or The Head of States, I enter the title in the search bar, and the Where to Watch section indicates its streaming availability in my region. When I lack a clear focus, I utilize Google Search to explore content by genre or mood, such as "best romantic comedies on Netflix." It presents a curated compilation, trailers, and hyperlinks to the streaming services.

On occasions when I seek to discover something novel, I utilize Google's suggestions tool and input queries such as "recommend a movie" or "what should I watch tonight," prompting Google to present several commendable possibilities. Although it does not curate niche content, it is beneficial for mainstream and classic hits.

Utilize Google Lens for searching

Google Lens is a sophisticated AI-driven technology that utilizes your camera to deliver contextual information derived from its visual input. It is a Google Search utility specifically tailored for photos. It enables the identification of items, provides mathematical assistance, offers information about a café, facilitates text translation and extraction from images, aids in academic tasks, and much more. If you admire an outfit, simply capture a photograph, and Google Lens will assist you in locating comparable goods online. At an upscale restaurant, if you are uncertain about your order, simply utilize Google Lens on the menu to access additional information and images.

Google Lens is available as a standalone application for Android and may also be utilized via Google Photos, the Chrome browser, Google Assistant, and certain camera applications. Inspired by Google Lens, Apple introduced Visual Intelligence with the iPhone 16 series in 2024.

Establish preferred sources

In August 2023, Google introduced the Preferred Sources feature in the United States and India, allowing users to select the websites from which they wish to get news. You may choose many sources, and Google will favor them in your subsequent searches. Your trusted outlets are prominently displayed at the top, eliminating the need to scroll through numerous headlines. To utilize this function, search for a news-related subject and select the icon adjacent to Top Stories. Subsequently, identify and choose your preferred sources, encompassing blogs, reputable publications, and additional materials.

Upon selecting your Preferred Sources, Google will display news from those websites in the Top Stories or a specific From your sources area. Google will display information from several websites, with your chosen sources prioritized at the top.

Utilize Google Search in a manner akin to Gemini.

Previously, Google’s Gemini AI was accessible solely as a webpage or a companion application. Gemini is now accessible from any page within the Chrome browser. Google Search provides an AI Mode function that delivers direct and more engaging responses instead of a conventional list of links. Numerous superior Gemini functionalities are presently accessible, enabling efficient information organization, image uploads, content discussions, and inquiries regarding the current screen display. The Search Live function enables real-time interaction with AI using the phone's camera and microphone.

Additionally, Google provides a convenient shortcut to access Gemini directly from the Chrome address bar. Enter @gemini in the address bar, then press the Tab or Spacebar key. It is important to note that Google is progressively implementing the "Gemini in Chrome" functionality, which may require some time to become available in your area.

Obtain photos devoid of copyright restrictions

If you utilize Google to source images for your blogs, ebooks, or other projects, you are likely familiar with the challenge of locating ideal, royalty-free photographs that are not subject to copyright restrictions. Google has an integrated Usage Rights tool that assists in finding Creative Commons photos available for unrestricted usage in personal or business endeavors. It will autonomously exclude any copyrighted photographs that are not permissible for use.

Simply input your search query in the Google search bar and select the Tools option located beneath the search bar. Choose Advanced Search and select the Usage Rights option located at the bottom. Select the appropriate license type based on your intended use of the image (either free for use and sharing or a commercial license), and then proceed to click on Advanced Search. Google will soon display royalty-free photographs that can be utilized without legal apprehensions. Ensure to verify the image source and provide appropriate attribution, if necessary. Alternative websites for copyright-free and royalty-free photos are also available.

Conduct reverse image searches

Reverse image search is a potent Google Search functionality that enables users to obtain information through an image instead of a textual query. This is useful for identifying comparable photographs, locating the source, obtaining various sizes of a photo, or verifying information. I utilize reverse image search to locate higher resolution copies of images and for rapid fact verification. Upon encountering a viral post or perceiving false facts, I promptly utilize the Google Search tool to authenticate the data.

To do reverse image searches, select the camera symbol in the Google Search bar and either upload the image or insert its URL. The search engine will promptly retrieve any visually analogous photographs, along with their corresponding webpages. To locate a specific section of the photograph, simply crop the image within the preview box.

Harness the capabilities of Google Search

Google Search is replete with various useful features available for immediate use. For example, you may monitor your flights and deliveries, utilize a stopwatch and timer, and execute mathematical computations, all directly from the search bar. It also enables conversions, allows selection of optimal colors using a color picker tool, facilitates coin flipping, dice rolling, and numerous additional functions.