Google is reportedly working on an enhancement for its Pixel-exclusive song detection feature, Now Playing. This functionality has been a part of Pixel devices since the Pixel 2 series. It automatically identifies songs playing nearby and keeps a local history for users to review. However, interest in Now Playing seems to have diminished over time, prompting Google to reintroduce it to users more effectively.
A recent APK teardown has revealed that Google may be planning to create a dedicated app icon for Now Playing in the app drawer. Currently, users can access the feature through a home screen widget or the settings menu, so this change would not add new functionality but rather improve accessibility. With the addition of an app drawer shortcut, more users may discover and take advantage of this feature. In addition to enhancing visibility with a dedicated icon, Google is exploring further updates for Now Playing.
These may include new quick settings shortcuts, integration on the lock screen, and the ability to display album art for recognized songs. The motivation behind this shift seems to stem from the usability of the feature. Although many Pixel users are aware of Now Playing’s capability for ambient song detection, not everyone knows about the history page or how to access it. A dedicated app icon could address this gap.
Presently, there is no indication that Google plans to make Now Playing available on non-Pixel devices. It remains exclusive to Pixel phones, and the latest Android code does not hint at any potential changes in this regard. For current Pixel users, this minor modification could significantly enhance their engagement with the Now Playing feature. Users are also eager for similar improvements with tools like Google Password Manager, which currently lacks easy app drawer access.