Play Music app update redesigns music controls in notification drawer

An updated version of Play Music for Android redesigns the music controls in the notification drawer. When expanded, the notification now features thumps up/down buttons. This is almost certainly an effort by Google to get a more accurate picture of user’s music taste.

The updated version 6.2.xxx started rolling out yesterday and the redesigned music notification appears in Android 5.1 and 6.0. When the notification is expanded, the thumbs up/down button appear next to the regular play/pause, forwards, and backwards button on the second row. Previously, the expanded notification would show a larger version of the album art. It is now miniaturized no matter what.

When users open the updated app for the first time, there’s a new three pane splash screen highlighting Play Music features such as “OK Google” integration and curated radio streams. After finishing, it tells you more about their recently launched family plan that allows up to six members unlimited listening for $14.99 a month.

Old music notification

The addition of the thumbs up/down button is possibly an attempt by Google to get a better idea of users’ listening preferences, better enabling the service to make suggestions the user is more likely to enjoy. The app update is rolling out now.