The company is reportedly working to make Fast Pair a part of the primary AOSP build via a new NearbyManager API. Moreover, the change is already available as part of the Android 13 Developer Preview 1 build too. So this could also be an addition that adds more improvements for Fast Pair in the future too. Android 13 isn’t expected to be finalized until toward the end of the year.
What does Android 13 changing Fast Pair actually mean for end-users?
Now, most users in the wider world won’t notice a difference with this change to Fast Pair in Android 13. That’s because most devices support GMS out-of-the-box. But users of Chinese devices and those in China itself would certainly be able to tell the difference. Most handsets sold in the region and plenty of handsets sold outside of the region don’t have Google apps or services installed by default. The change could also mean that the devices made by OEMs who don’t use Google services for other reasons — such as privacy — will have access to Fast Pair too. Broadening the reach of Google’s connective service. For clarity, Fast Pair is a service made by Google to quickly pair Bluetooth devices — specifically headphones — with smart gadgets that are signed into users’ accounts. So, for example, a pair of wireless earbuds with Fast Pair can link to a new smartphone, once signed in, at a single tap. And, importantly, without subsequent taps since the service works via on-device prompt when the headphones are on and searching to connect. Fast Pair is also coming to more devices in the near future. Including Android TV, Windows, and Chrome OS devices. So allowing OEMs to include the service without GMS makes a lot of sense on that front too. The change will impact far more than just mobile phones for the better.
