Apple is gradually transforming the music streaming experience across platforms—and the latest Apple Music for Android beta update proves just that. Although Android users might not see the highly anticipated “Liquid Glass” visual revamp exclusive to iOS 26, the new features introduced in version 5.0 still mark a major leap forward. From lyrics translation and pronunciation guides to smart music pinning and monthly replay stats, Android users can now enjoy a more intelligent, interactive, and personalized Apple Music experience.
Let’s dive into everything new in this exciting redesign of Apple Music for Android.
No Liquid Glass, But a Sleeker, Smarter Interface
First things first—no, the Android version of Apple Music isn’t getting the Liquid Glass design language that has reshaped the iOS 26 experience. Apple’s signature visual overhaul with translucent elements and dynamic blur effects is currently exclusive to iPhones. Whether Android will ever see the same remains unclear.
“Liquid Glass is Apple’s new design language for iOS 26. While Android didn’t get the visual uplift, it certainly didn’t miss out on the intelligence upgrades,” – Tech analyst comment from 9to5Google.
That said, Android users aren’t left in the dark. The interface has received modern design touches borrowed from iOS, such as pill-shaped buttons for play, shuffle, and repeat—replacing the older rectangular controls with rounded corners. These updated controls appear at the top of albums, playlists, and track queues, bringing a more fluid and consistent experience.
Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation Guide: Breaking Language Barriers
Perhaps the most exciting feature is the introduction of live lyrics translation and pronunciation guides. This brings a huge advantage for global listeners who enjoy music in different languages—from K-Pop to Latin hits and everything in between.
This feature allows Android users to:
- View real-time translated lyrics as the song plays
- Access pronunciation guidance for learning how to sing along properly
- Understand the context and meaning of foreign-language songs
While Apple Intelligence powers this on iPhones, it is likely that Google’s AI handles the task on Android devices, though Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the backend integration.
Use Case Example:
Imagine listening to BTS or Rosalía and being able to read the translated lyrics in English while also seeing pronunciation hints in sync with the music. It transforms passive listening into an active and immersive experience.
Pin Your Favorites with Smart Sync
Another useful feature introduced in this version is the ability to pin artists, albums, playlists, or individual songs to the top of your Library.
Here’s why that matters:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Pin Artists/Albums/Songs | Quick access without searching every time |
| Sync with iOS Devices | Seamless cross-device experience |
| Auto-Download on Pin | Instant offline listening, no extra taps |
| Easy Unpin with Long-Press | Customizable and reversible at will |
This feature is ideal for listeners who want their top tracks or workout playlists ready to go—online or offline.
Monthly and Yearly Replay Stats Now on Android
Apple Music Replay is no longer an iOS-exclusive privilege. The Android app now allows users to track their music listening stats across months and years, just like Spotify Wrapped.
You can now:
- See your top artists, albums, and songs
- Discover listening patterns and genre preferences
- Share yearly stats with friends on social media
Quote from a user:
“I always envied my iPhone friends’ Apple Music Replays—finally, Android users get to see what we’ve been jamming to all year!”
This feature is great for users who love music data and want insights into their listening behavior.
What’s Still Missing?
Despite these upgrades, some features like AutoMix—the smart DJ-style crossfade that debuted in iOS 26—have not made it to Android yet. AutoMix smoothly blends two songs using tempo matching and subtle transitions, offering an experience similar to what a live DJ might provide.
Though Apple has not confirmed whether AutoMix will roll out to Android, its absence might leave some power users wanting more.
Apple Music for Android vs iOS: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Android (v5.0 Beta) | iOS 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid Glass UI | ❌ | ✅ |
| Lyrics Translation | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pronunciation Guide | ✅ | ✅ |
| Smart Pinning | ✅ | ✅ |
| Monthly/Yearly Stats | ✅ | ✅ |
| AutoMix | ❌ | ✅ |
| Pill-Shaped Controls | ✅ | ✅ |
While Apple Music for Android is still playing catch-up on the design front, its feature set is nearly on par with iOS in terms of AI and personalization.
Final Thoughts: A Win for Cross-Platform Music Lovers
Apple has often been criticized for giving its Android app less love—but this new update signals a shift. With AI-powered lyric translation, smart Library features, and syncing capabilities, Android users are no longer second-class citizens in the Apple Music ecosystem.
Even though the absence of Liquid Glass and AutoMix may disappoint some, the enhanced functionality more than compensates. Whether you’re a multilingual listener or a playlist perfectionist, Apple Music for Android now feels more tailored, intelligent, and fun.
