Google’s new Simplify tool on iPhone explains difficult text in simple words

Google

Reading complicated stuff online just got a whole lot easier—at least for iPhone users. Google has launched a new AI-powered feature called Simplify that helps break down complex text into something more understandable, without making you leave the webpage you're on.

The feature is part of the Google app for iOS, and it's powered by Google’s Gemini AI model. Whether it’s a medical article, a research paper, or just a confusing paragraph full of jargon, Simplify can turn it into something clearer and easier to digest.

Here's how it works: You simply highlight any text on a website while using the Google app on your iPhone. Then tap the Simplify icon that shows up in the menu. The AI quickly rewrites the selected text in simpler terms—right there on the page.

Let’s say you’re reading a medical article that mentions terms like “emphysema” or “fibrosis.” Instead of switching tabs to search for what those mean, Simplify will just explain them in plain language, such as: “a lung condition that damages air sacs” or “scarring in response to damage.”

Google says early testing shows that people found these simpler versions more helpful than the original text. However, the company also admits the system isn’t perfect and will need ongoing checks to avoid mistakes.

Right now, Simplify is only available for iPhone users through the Google app. As for Android or Chrome users, Google hasn’t made any promises yet. A company spokesperson said there's nothing to announce for those platforms at the moment, but they’re always exploring ways to expand useful features.

So if you're an iPhone user tired of dense, difficult writing online, Google just gave you a handy new tool to make reading a little less stressful.