Now Playing, a popular feature exclusive to Pixel phones, is set to become available on more Android devices. This feature, which listens for and identifies background music, will be launched as a standalone app, according to references found in Android System Intelligence version B.21.
App Expansion and Features
The new Now Playing app will allow users to download it directly from the Google Play Store. This move suggests that Google is preparing to make the feature accessible to a wider range of Android phones beyond its own Pixel line. The app will retain its core functionalities, including song identification and history logging, while offering users a dedicated platform for managing these features.
Upcoming Android Updates
In addition to the Now Playing expansion, the first beta of Android 17 introduces minor user interface changes. These include a redesigned Home Screen search bar, an option to remove the At a Glance widget, and enhancements for large-screen devices. The full public release of Android 17 is anticipated around June 2026.