Google announced in 2019 that it would be adding augmented reality objects to Search. Google’s AR objects in search are incredibly easy to access. The objects are added to search in the belief that the easiest way to learn about something is to see it. By seeing things in augmented reality (AR), users can see the scale of an object and also details they might not notice from just a simple picture.
To keep this easy to access, Google puts its 3D animals and other AR objects right at the top of search. For example, searching for “tiger” will show a Google Search Knowledge Panel. These panels are often shown for movies, famous celebrities, and other subjects. In the case of a 3D animal through Google, you’ll see an overview of what the animal is, a few images or it, and a section which says “Meet a life-sized tiger up close” and a “View in 3D” button. That button launches the AR experience. You’ll need a supported smartphone to view these objects.
So, what AR animals can you view on Google Search? Technically, there’s no official list from Google for 3D animals, but there’s a number of known examples, many of which we’ve gone hands-on with so you can see how it all works in action.
These include:
Alligator
Angler fish
Brown bear
Cat
Cheetah
Dog
Labrador Retriever
Pug
Rottweiler
Duck
Eagle
Emperor penguin
Giant panda
Goat
Hedgehog
Horse
Lion
Macaw
Octopus
Racoon
Shark
Shetland pony
Snake
Tiger
Turtle
Wolf
