In Android 13, a new media player notification was introduced, featuring a distinctive squiggly design. This notification also allows users to conveniently change the output source to other paired or connected Google Cast devices. At CES 2023, Google announced a partnership with Spotify to integrate Spotify Connect into Android’s media player. Despite this announcement, the feature has yet to be rolled out, with both companies maintaining silence since then. However, there are indications that the feature could finally become available, as Google once again highlighted the Spotify integration with Android’s media player at MWC 2024.
Amidst a flurry of announcements related to Android and Wear OS in 2024, Google mentioned that Spotify Connect would integrate with Android’s media player. This integration will enable users to utilize the source option in the media player notification to switch music playback to other Spotify Connect devices. Essentially, this turns the phone into a Spotify remote, allowing users to control music playback on other devices without needing to open the Spotify app.
One notable advantage of this feature is its dynamic device suggestions, which vary based on factors such as location, time of day, and proximity to speakers. Despite the announcement, Google did not provide a specific timeframe for the feature’s release. Thus, there remains a possibility that Spotify integration with Android’s media player may face further delays. However, it is hoped that both Google and Spotify will address any remaining issues and release the feature in the near future.
Spotify is known for being quick to integrate new Android features into its app, making the delay in this case somewhat unusual. It is speculated that there may have been roadblocks or challenges that needed to be addressed before implementing the integration.
Currently, YouTube Music stands out as one of the few apps offering extensive integration with the output switcher in Android’s media player notification. While users can switch between Bluetooth devices and their device’s speaker with any app, YouTube Music allows for quick connection to Cast-enabled devices. However, this functionality has not yet been widely adopted by other popular music player apps for Android.
