How to use Circle to Search on a OnePlus (OxygenOS 16)

Device

Android

Shown on

OnePlus Nord 5 (CPH2709), OxygenOS 16.0.5.1201, Android 16

App

Settings

Path

Settings › System & update › System navigation

Real screenshots

3 of 3 steps

Checked

October 2026

Sources

1 official, linked below

Step by step

1. 

   Check it is on

   Searching Circle to Search finds it under System & update, System navigation.

   Done

2. 

   The switch

   Circle to Search was on. It says touch and hold the Home button, the gesture bar or the bottom of the screen.

   Done

3. 

   Touch and hold the bar

   The screen freezes with Google at the top. Our first use showed a welcome card.

   Done

If you do not see this option

• Not in the list? It needs the Google app. Source: Search your screen with Circle to Search
• Digital assistant? Below it: swipe from a bottom corner for the Google assistant.

If this does not work

• Opens by accident? Switch Circle to Search off.
• Holding the bar does nothing? Check the switch is on. Source: Search your screen with Circle to Search

About this guide

Circle to Search looks up anything on your screen without leaving the app.

The screenshots are from our OnePlus Nord 5 with OxygenOS 16.0.5.1201 and Android 16, in Dark mode. It opened straight away, with a welcome card and no sign-in.

Good to know

Switch between gestures and buttons on a OnePlus.

In short: Touch and hold the gesture bar.