The Files by Google app is about to become smarter

1 min readUpdated Sep 14, 2023Sep 14, 20235:56 AM

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Google is reportedly working on a new feature for its Android Files app called Smart Search, which will automatically identify and highlight important documents. This could make it easier for users to find the files they need, such as contracts, tax documents, or medical records.

Smart Search, not to be confused with Smart Storage which helps you save space on your device by deleting media that has already been backed up to Google Photos, is meant for files in the Documents folder of the Files app. It will use machine learning to identify important documents based on a variety of factors, including their content, file type, and creation date. Once a document has been identified as important, it will be highlighted in the Files app so that users can easily find it

This was originally found and reported by @AssembleDebug on X, who was able to enable the feature via a flag. While testing, the leaker found that the feature will automatically and periodically scan and index your documents and images using something akin to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to identify text within those files. Additionally, as the name implies, search will be available to find the related text and document in which it is contained.

In addition to highlighting important documents, Smart Search can also suggest related documents. For example, if a user opens a contract, Smart Search might suggest other contracts that the user has saved. This could help users to stay organized and find the documents they need more quickly.

Smart Search is still in development, but it is believed that it will be released in a future update to the Files app. It is a new and innovative feature that could make the Files app even more useful, especially when an important detail in a document is needed right away.

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Questions & Answers

What is the primary function of the new Smart Search feature?

Smart Search is designed to automatically identify and highlight important documents within the Files app's Documents folder. It aims to make it easier for users to locate specific files like contracts or medical records.

How will Smart Search identify important documents for users?

The feature will use machine learning to identify important documents by analysing their content, file type, and creation date. It also periodically scans and indexes documents using OCR to find text within them.

What additional functionality, besides highlighting, will Smart Search offer?

Beyond highlighting important documents, Smart Search will also be able to suggest related documents. For instance, if a user opens one contract, it might recommend other saved contracts.

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