Google Pixel getting ‘dedicated’ Now Playing app, coming to Play Store

Source: 9to5Google

About APK Insight

In this “APK Insight” post, we’ve decompiled the latest version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we’re able to see various lines of code that hint at possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever ship these features, and our interpretation of what they are may be imperfect. We’ll try to enable those that are closer to being finished, however, to show you how they’ll look in case they do ship. With that in mind, read on.

Background

At the moment, the background song identification feature is powered by Android System Intelligence, which also handles Live Caption, Smart Text Selection, and other features. The interface is quite old, using a two‑tab layout for History and Favorites.

Version B.21 of Android System Intelligence includes strings describing an upcoming “upgrade”:

Go to play store

Download the new Now Playing app

Now Playing is soon becoming a dedicated app. Your settings, song history, and other features will be accessible through this new app. When you tap the notification, you’ll be directed to the Play Store for the install.

The new app’s package name is com.google.android.apps.pixel.nowplaying.

This approach should allow Google to introduce more features for Now Playing, similar to how Weather became a dedicated Pixel app. A modern design would be a welcome upgrade, and syncing Now Playing history across devices is a much‑needed improvement.

As for timing, the next Feature Drop in March would be a good candidate for the launch.

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