Google has been enhancing the experience for Pixel smartphone users with various exclusive features, one of which is the Shazam-like Now Playing feature. Recently, the tech giant has been working on improving this functionality to make it more user-friendly, including the addition of album art and a dedicated Quick Settings tile. However, it seems Google has even more enhancements planned for Now Playing in upcoming Android updates. In a recent exploration of the latest Android Canary build, Android Authority found an inactive dedicated app icon for Now Playing.
They managed to activate this toggle, causing the icon to appear in the app drawer. Interestingly, this app icon does not lead to a separate application. Instead, users are redirected to their Now Playing history, which can currently be accessed through several different paths in the settings. Despite having multiple options available to reach the Now Playing history, the inclusion of an icon in the app drawer raises questions about its necessity.
It is unclear whether Google aims to introduce additional functionality to the feature or simply wants to increase awareness among users about Now Playing. The new icon design hints at potential upcoming changes, suggesting that an overhaul may be in the works. Screenshots shared by Android Authority indicate that Now Playing might receive its own dedicated app info page, as it currently exists within the Android System Intelligence app. This modification, coupled with the new icon, implies that Google may introduce new capabilities for Now Playing.
However, with limited information available and the feature currently found only in the Android Canary build, answers remain sparse for now.
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