Google Play Music, launched by Google in November 2011, remains a top contender in music streaming alongside Spotify and Apple Music. As avid users who've tested these services extensively, we can attest to its robust feature set—perfect if you're switching or looking to get more from your subscription.
In this guide, drawn from hands-on experience, we reveal seven under-the-radar features that deliver real value, whether you're a beginner or power user.
Smart recommendations drive music discovery in streaming apps. While Spotify's Discover Weekly set a benchmark in 2015, Google Play Music's 2016 update introduced a rival feature that adapts to your location and activity—like gym workouts or office sessions—beyond just past listens.
Take it further by customizing genres: Navigate to Settings > General > Improve your recommendations.
Select your preferred genres, then tap Next.
Choose suggested artists and hit Finish. This precision sets it apart from competitors.
If you're familiar with Chrome or Gmail Labs—Google's testing ground for innovative features—you'll love this. Access via Settings > Labs and toggle experimental options. Note: These are betas, so results may vary.
Get pop-up alerts for song changes, even with the browser minimized, showing artist, title, album, and artwork. Future updates may add skip and volume controls.
Upload up to 50,000 personal tracks for global access. This Lab adds a notes field for custom metadata like comments or genres.
Stream to Chromecast and transform your TV into a cozy virtual fireplace.
Without an official desktop app, the Miniplayer bridges the gap effectively. Play any track in the web app, then click the diagonal arrow in the upper-right of the Now Playing panel.
On the new screen, select Install.
It offers play/pause, thumbs up/down, skip, shuffle, repeat, and 'I'm Feeling Lucky' radio.
YouTube Red (now Premium) integration is a highlight, but this gem is free: From the Now Playing bar, hover and click the YouTube icon for the song's video—without leaving the app. It pops up centrally; click elsewhere to resume music.
Google Play Music's identifier rivals top apps. In the mobile app, tap the search icon and select What's playing to recognize nearby tunes.
On Android, add a home screen widget via Widgets > Google > Google Sound Search. Mobile-only feature.
Boost desktop efficiency with these proven shortcuts—no mouse needed:
If algorithms get stuck on odd tastes, wipe the slate clean: Go to Settings > Delete recommendation history and confirm twice. Play counts and ratings remain intact.
These features, honed through our daily use, can transform Google Play Music. What did we miss? Share your favorites in the comments below.
