Pandora Radio v 5.7 brings much-needed redesign to all users

Pandora Radio, one of the most popular music streaming services in the US, pushed out a big update to its Android app, bringing lots of visual improvements.

Pandora has actually begun testing this new design back in late November, but it’s only now that the change is being pushed out to all users. Pandora Radio for Android was in dire need for some cosmetic work, and the good news is it’s finally getting it. As for the not-so-good news, the fresh design is clearly an adaptation of the iOS version, complete with typical iOS buttons and interaction patterns. Fans of Material design need not apply. If you’re fine with that, there’s quite a lot to like about the new interface, including a decent widget.

In terms of new features, there’s Chromecast support and a new quick access icon to the new Personalization section, where you can see your “like” history. Oddly enough, this icon is only visible in the phone interface.

Another change is a handy mini player that lets browse around and still have your playback controls at your fingertips. While Pandora touts a re-designed permanent notification, there are sadly no controls built in the notification card, like other music services have.

Redditors report that the experience is somewhat marred by bugs, and, of course, you’ll also have to put up with frequent ads – the solution for this last qualm is Pandora One, the service’s premium tier.

You can try Pandora Radio from the Play Store here, though the service is open in US, Australia, and New Zealand only. Luckily for most of the world, there are a number of great music services available in more countries – check them out here.