Google Pixel “Now Playing” Standalone App Coming Soon

AI

📝 Key Points of This Article

• The “Now Playing” feature may soon become an independent standalone app.
• Analysis of the “Android System Intelligence” app B.21 update revealed code including prompts to guide users to the “Google Play Store” to install the “Now Playing” app.
• As no Japanese code regarding the standalone version of “Now Playing” has been confirmed yet, it is expected to be currently in the preparation stage.

Google Pixel devices feature “Now Playing,” which identifies music playing in your surroundings and displays the song title on the lock screen.

While the “Now Playing” feature on Google Pixel devices is currently managed by the “Android System Intelligence” system app, it may become a standalone “Now Playing” app in the future. Following an analysis of the “Android System Intelligence” app B.21 update released on Thursday, February 12, 2026, it was confirmed that code has been added that includes instructions to direct users to the “Google Play Store” to install the “Now Playing” app.

<string name="now_playing_upgrade_notification_text">Now Playing has a new update</string>
<string name="now_playing_upgrade_notification_action">Go to play store</string>

The newly discovered code indicates that “Now Playing” is set to become a standalone app. This is not surprising, as Google has previously turned system-integrated features like “Google Password Manager” and the “Pixel Weather” app into standalone apps to streamline updates for these core functions.

Since no Japanese code regarding the standalone “Now Playing” app has been found yet, it is likely still in the preparation phase.

“Android System Intelligence” App Link