In a recent update, Google Maps users noticed that the in-app media controls for Spotify and YouTube Music had suddenly disappeared.
The popular feature, which allowed users to control music playback without leaving the navigation screen, was missing from version 25.28 of the Google Maps app for Android — and the beta version 25.29 showed no sign of its return.
Users could no longer access the option under Settings > Navigation > Show media playback controls, and the toggle to choose a default media app also vanished. This caused confusion and frustration, especially among drivers who relied on the feature to manage their playlists while using Maps.
Thankfully, Google has now confirmed that the removal was not permanent. The company told reporters that it is “actively working to fix an issue that is affecting media playback controls on Google Maps.” While Google did not provide a specific date for the fix, the response reassures users that the feature is not being discontinued.
Interestingly, the media controls are still available on the iOS version of Google Maps, further suggesting the issue is limited to Android.
Until the fix rolls out, Android users may need to switch between apps to control their music — a small but frustrating step backward for an otherwise seamless driving experience.
