Google is developing a feature to control smartphone audio output from smartwatches

Google is reportedly developing a new Android feature that will allow users to manage their smartphone’s audio output settings through the smartwatch. Currently, switching audio output sources on Android phones is straightforward, with existing solutions like Chromecast and Spotify Connect facilitating easy transfer of audio output. However, these capabilities are limited to the phone itself. Google’s upcoming feature aims to extend this control to smartwatches.

The new feature, called “Media Routing Control,” will require app permissions, allowing apps on the phone to determine where audio output is directed. This will enable the companion app on the smartwatch to take charge of managing the audio output. Essentially, smartwatches will gain the ability to control where audio or video is played from other apps.

This development was first identified by Android Authority, who looked at the “Media Routing Control” feature in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), along with references to the project from various sources. According to Google, this permission will allow an app to access the list of available devices and control which audio or video plays. The list can include headphones, speakers, or other connected devices, and the app can choose where to stream or cast the audio or video.

It is not yet clear whether this functionality will be available for all Wear OS devices or whether it will be exclusive to select Google devices like the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2. Additionally, it is uncertain whether this feature will be part of the next full release of Android or introduced later.

More details are expected at Google I/O 2024 on May 14, where Google is set to reveal significant updates on Android, Wear OS, and other software projects.

For now, the exact scope and release timeline of this feature is unclear, but the possibility of controlling smartphone audio output through a smartwatch is an exciting development for Android users.