Google’s ‘Now Playing’ feature, a beloved tool for music enthusiasts using Pixel phones, is set to expand its reach beyond the confines of Google’s hardware. This innovative feature, which identifies background music automatically, will soon be available as a dedicated app for a wider audience of Android users.
Recent findings from Tech Advisor indicate that this transition was uncovered in the latest Android System Intelligence version B.21. This update suggests that non-Google Android devices will soon enjoy the benefits of the Now Playing functionality, which has been a standout feature for Pixel users.
For those unfamiliar with Now Playing, it continuously listens for music in the environment, identifying songs and maintaining a log of past discoveries. While the accuracy can vary, the convenience it offers has made it a favorite among users.
In a notable development, 9to5Google has reported that the Now Playing feature is being transformed into a standalone app. The new version includes prompts encouraging users to “Download the new Now Playing app,” along with a message stating, “Now Playing has a new home. Your settings, song history, and other features can be found in the dedicated app.”
This transition is promising for existing Pixel users, as it hints at potential enhancements to an already impressive feature. However, the implications for the broader Android community are even more significant, as it paves the way for any Android device capable of accessing the Google Play Store to utilize this functionality.
Android 17 beta
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Android 17, the first beta version has been released, showcasing some subtle yet noteworthy improvements. While it may not represent a dramatic leap from Android 16, the update introduces a refreshed user interface, including a redesigned Home Screen search bar and an option to remove the At a Glance widget. Additionally, users can expect an enhanced experience on larger screens and a more streamlined volume panel.
As the beta testing progresses, further features are anticipated ahead of the public release scheduled for June 2026, keeping the excitement alive for Android enthusiasts and developers alike.
