Google has restored the manual search button to the Pixel's Now Playing app, a feature removed in March that frustrated users. The update reintroduces the 'Tap to see what's playing' prompt on the lock screen, allowing users to trigger a cloud-based search for songs when automatic recognition fails. This is crucial for identifying obscure tracks not in the device's local database, which relies on a limited selection of popular music.

While the update brings back this key tool, 9to5Google found no other major changes, suggesting it focuses on background fixes. The fix arrives just in time for music discovery enthusiasts, addressing a long-standing pain point for Pixel users who rely on this feature to identify songs in cafes or elsewhere. It's a welcome return for a function that significantly enhances the phone's unique lock screen experience.