Google Play Music Will Be The Default Music Service On The Galaxy S8

To coincide with the retail launch of the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, Samsung has partnered with Google to make the Play Music app the default music player on Samsung mobile devices. This partnership actually began last year for Samsung’s Galaxy S7, but this time, Google Play Music comes with some exclusive perks.

One of those perks enables Galaxy S8 owners to upload 100,000 tracks on Google Play Music’s cloud service, the Verge reported. For everyone else, that feature is still limited to 50,000 tracks.

Those who buy the Galaxy S8 also will be getting a three-month free trial for Play Music, which is the same deal Google offered buyers of the Pixel/Pixel XL and other select Android phones. Google Play Music’s usual free trial period only lasts 30 days, CNET noted.

The inclusion of the three-month trial appears to be Google’s way of competing with the likes of Spotify, Apple Music and other subscription music streaming services. The free trial is only valid for new subscribers, and Google is most likely hoping users continue paying for the service after the free period ends.

Lastly, Google Play Music will work with Bixby, Samsung’s new digital assistant on the Galaxy S8. When Bixby officially launches this spring, users will be able to use voice commands to control music playback and play their favorite song or genre.

“We’re thrilled to bring this special version of Google Play Music to Samsung customers anywhere, and we look forward to bringing the best music experience to your Samsung device,” Google said on its blog. “Together, we’re committed to delivering the perfect soundtrack to make your everyday moments better.”

Google also says it will continue to collaborate with Samsung “to create special features” in Play Music that will only be available for Samsung customers.