Google is taking a significant step forward in enhancing the music playback experience on Android smartwatches with the upcoming Wear OS 5.1 update. According to Android developer release notes, the tech giant is testing a feature that enables users to play music directly from their smartwatch's built-in speakers, a capability that is currently limited to Bluetooth playback.

This new feature, spotted by Mishaal Rahman, will allow users to select the built-in speaker for apps that support media playback through the watch speaker. While it's unclear which devices will support this feature, it marks a significant improvement in the overall user experience for Android smartwatch owners.

Currently, Android smartwatches can only play media over Bluetooth, a limitation that has been a point of contention for users. In contrast, Apple Watches have supported built-in speaker playback since the Series 10 and Ultra 2 models. This update brings Android smartwatches more in line with their Apple counterparts, offering users more flexibility and convenience in their music playback options.

Interestingly, some Pixel Watch owners claim to have experienced built-in speaker playback in the past, albeit briefly. Users on the Pixel Watch subreddit reported being able to play music and podcasts directly from their smartwatch two years ago, but this feature was later patched out. The return of this capability is likely to be welcomed by users who value the convenience of listening to content directly from their wrist.

The Wear OS 5.1 update, which is based on Android 15, is also expected to add support for credential managers. While Google has not provided a specific timeline for the update's release, Pixel Watch owners can expect to receive the update in March next year, according to a previous announcement.

The implications of this update are significant, as it opens up new possibilities for Android smartwatch owners to enjoy their music and podcasts on the go. With the ability to play content directly from their smartwatch, users will no longer be reliant on Bluetooth connectivity, making for a more seamless and convenient experience.

As the wearables market continues to evolve, features like built-in speaker playback will become increasingly important in differentiating devices and enhancing user experience. Google's move to test this feature in Wear OS 5.1 is a clear indication of the company's commitment to improving its smartwatch offerings and staying competitive in the market.