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Code Suggests Google Preps Standalone Now Playing App for Pixel

Code in Android System Intelligence B.21 points to a dedicated app for Now Playing settings, song history, plus other features.

Overview

  • Strings discovered in Android System Intelligence B.21 reference a prompt to “Download the new Now Playing app,” indicating a forthcoming migration to a separate application.
  • Language in the code describes the app as Now Playing’s “new home,” with settings, song history, and additional capabilities centralized there.
  • A referenced notification appears set to offer a shortcut to the Google Play Store to fetch the new app once available.
  • Reporting indicates the app is expected to surface recognized-song history rather than replace the existing always-on background recognition on Pixel phones.
  • Google has not announced the app or timing, and the details derive from code findings first noted by 9to5Google and highlighted by Droid Life and Android Headlines.