- The A-Series earbuds now block outside noise, feature AI-powered Clear Calling, and support Transparency Mode for the first time.
- Both Pixel Buds 2a and Pro 2 allow users to interact with Google’s AI assistant without reaching for their phones, handling calls, messages, directions, and more.
- Users can now accept or decline calls and texts by nodding or shaking their heads, thanks to built-in sensors and accelerometers.
During its annual “Made by Google” event on Wednesday, Google unveiled new hardware, including the Pixel 10 series, Pixel Watch 4, and the latest Pixel Buds 2a alongside the upgraded Pixel Buds Pro 2. Like last year, the company’s AI assistant, Gemini, was a key feature. New Gemini integrations are designed to improve how users listen to and make calls on Google’s earbuds.
Pixel Buds 2a: Affordable earbuds with premium features
The Pixel Buds 2a are the second generation of Google’s A-Series earbuds. They bring major upgrades, such as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which was previously only available on the higher-end Pixel Buds Pro.
For the first time, the A-Series now includes Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). This feature, powered by Google’s Tensor A1 chip and Silent Seal™ 1.5 technology, lets users block out distracting sounds when they’re on calls, listening to music, or watching videos. The earbuds also have Clear Calling, which uses AI to reduce background noise like wind or talking, so both people on a call can hear each other clearly.
Another new feature is Transparency Mode, which was previously only available on the Pixel Buds Pro. This mode allows users to hear what’s going on around them while still listening to their audio.
The earbuds also include hands-free Gemini support, which lets users talk to Google’s AI assistant without using their phone. With simple voice commands, you can get directions, check emails, manage playlists, or get summaries of your messages from the AI.
Additional upgrades include:
- Battery life: Up to 7 hours of listening with ANC enabled and 20 hours with the charging case.
- Design: The smallest and lightest A-Series yet, featuring a twist stabilizer for customizable comfort.
- Durability: IP54 sweat and water resistance for workouts and outdoor use.
- Audio enhancements: Redesigned acoustics, a 11mm dynamic speaker driver, and a customizable 5-band equalizer.
- Convenience features: Fast Pair for Android, Find Hub for tracking misplaced earbuds, and seamless device switching.
The Pixel Buds 2a retail for $129 / ₹12,999 and come in two new colors, Hazel and Iris. Pre-orders begin today, with general availability set for October 9.
Pixel Buds Pro 2: Smarter and more interactive
Launched last year, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is also getting useful updates through Gemini integration. The most notable new feature is gesture-based controls. Users can now answer or decline calls and messages just by nodding or shaking their heads. This is made possible by the advanced sensors and accelerometers inside the earbuds.
Additionally, Gemini now works more closely with Google apps. This lets users do things without using their hands, like adding grocery items to Google Keep or scheduling events in Calendar.
Other improvements include:
- Adaptive Audio: Automatically balances sound levels to fit changing environments.
- Loud Noise Protection: Reduces sudden high-volume sounds, such as emergency sirens.
- Gemini Summaries: Provides on-the-go message replies and key information readouts.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 is priced at $229, and in India they cost ₹22,900 (currently ₹19,900 with a ₹3,000 discount). The earbuds also debut in a new Moonstone color.
Google confirmed that most of the new features will arrive via a software update in September for all existing Pro 2 users.
