Google has unveiled new updates to its Search and Lens features that empower users to tackle mathematics and physics problems.
The features aim to assist users in identifying both known and unknown values and guide them on which formulas to use for specific problems.
Google’s Product Lead, Rob Wong, explained the rationale behind these updates, saying, “Whether you’re delving into a math textbook or turning to Search to get more context on a complicated physics problem, it can sometimes be hard to describe exactly what you’re looking for. Take that intricate biology concept or pesky geometry problem, for example. With new features across Search and Lens, you can now visualize STEM-related concepts and figure out which equation to use by browsing for them in a more natural and intuitive way.”
Wong added that these features are designed to alleviate the frustration students often feel when they get stuck on a math problem.
Now, when a problem is entered into the Search bar or captured with Lens, Google provides a step-by-step explanation and solution.
Users can also initiate this experience by typing “math solver” in the search bar, available on desktop and soon on mobile.
For geometry problems, which are often challenging to describe in words alone, Google offers a solution through Lens.
Users can use Lens to interpret both the visual and textual aspects of the problem, to generate a step-by-step guide on how to solve it.
In addition to problem-solving, Google has also introduced new 3D models in Search, allowing users to explore interactive diagrams on nearly 1,000 topics covering biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and more.
Google initially introduced 3D models in 2021, offering diagrams for over 200 concepts in subjects like chemistry, biology, physics, and anatomy.
