Now Playing Returns to Google Pixels

Google has quietly returned a feature to its Pixel phones that allows users to identify background music. The Now Playing feature, which uses AI to recognize songs playing nearby, had lost its ability to send subtle notifications to users about the music it detected.

The feature was removed earlier this year, with some speculating that Google may have deemed it unnecessary in favor of a new app and Quick Settings tile. However, following user complaints on Reddit, it appears that Google has restored the notification system.

Not all Pixel users seem to have received the update yet, but those who have confirmed that Now Playing is once again sending track notifications. The feature allows users to identify music playing in the background and log it for later consultation.