The Pixel Buds Pro 2, unveiled at Made by Google 2024, are officially here, and they’ve already started making waves in the world of wireless earbuds. Packed with exciting new features and improvements, these earbuds are lighter, smaller, and more versatile than ever before. Having used the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 for almost a week, I’ve discovered several standout features that make them the best earbuds I’ve used to date. From their snug fit to the impressive AI-driven functionality, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 have set a new standard in wireless audio.
Let’s dive into what makes these earbuds a must-have for anyone seeking an unparalleled audio experience.
A Perfect Fit with Customized Comfort
One of the first things I noticed about the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is their impeccable fit. Google has taken great strides to ensure these earbuds are as comfortable as they are secure. The buds come with four different sizes of eartips: extra small, small, medium, and large. This variety ensures that there’s a size for everyone, no matter their ear shape or size. To achieve this perfect fit, Google analyzed over 45 million ear scan data points and conducted extensive real-world wear tests. When I first set up my Pixel Buds Pro 2, my Pixel phone guided me through a test to determine if the pre-selected medium tips were the best match for me. By playing a snippet of music and using sensors to measure how well the sound traveled through the tips, the setup process confirmed that medium was indeed my size.
The twist-to-adjust stabilizer on the buds ensures they stay put, even during rigorous activities. I put them to the ultimate test with a three-hour run, and they didn’t budge despite the sweat and motion. Comfort and stability are no longer a trade-off with the Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Adaptive Audio for Every Environment
The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 is a game-changer. From the moment I put them in, I noticed how effectively they shut out external noise. Thanks to Google’s new Tensor AI chip, these buds adapt to the surrounding environment 3 million times per second. This ultra-low-latency audio processing makes the ANC twice as effective as the original Pixel Buds Pro.
One of my favorite features is Conversation Detection. When enabled, this feature automatically pauses your music and switches to Transparency mode whenever you start speaking. It’s perfect for quick interactions without needing to remove the earbuds. Additionally, Clear Calling technology reduces background noise during phone calls, ensuring I’m always heard loud and clear, no matter how noisy my surroundings are.
Gemini Live Your Hands-Free Companion
The integration of Google’s Gemini AI into the Pixel Buds Pro 2 takes the concept of hands-free assistance to new heights. With a simple voice command like “Hey Google, let’s talk live,” I can have a conversation with Gemini right through my earbuds. I’ve found this particularly helpful for tasks like brainstorming or planning. For instance, Gemini assisted me with race-day preparations by providing eating tips and visualization techniques. It even offered pop culture-inspired Halloween costume ideas when I was stuck.
All my conversations with Gemini are stored in the app on my Pixel phone, making it easy to revisit important details or gather insights later. This seamless blend of AI and accessibility is one of the most futuristic aspects of the Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Immersive Spatial Audio with Head Tracking
Music and media come alive with the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s spatial audio and head-tracking capabilities. These features deliver a surround sound-like experience, creating a sense of depth and movement in the audio. During the initial setup, I tried out the spatial audio demo, and I was blown away. Whether I was moving around the kitchen while watching videos on my Pixel or listening to a podcast while cleaning the house, the audio adjusted dynamically to my movements. It felt like having a high-end surround sound system condensed into a pair of lightweight earbuds.
The result is an immersive listening experience that’s perfect for music lovers, binge-watchers, and multitaskers alike.
Find My Buds Peace of Mind
As someone prone to misplacing small gadgets, the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s Find My Device integration has been a lifesaver. Once I added the earbuds to the app during setup, I could easily locate them whenever they went missing.
Even if the earbuds are tucked away in an obscure spot — like between couch cushions or inside a backpack — the new ringing speaker feature makes them easy to track down. It’s a simple yet invaluable feature for keeping your earbuds within reach.
Protecting Your Hearing with Wellness Features
Google has included a thoughtful Hearing Wellness feature in the Pixel Buds app. This feature allows users to monitor their listening habits and ensure they’re not exposing their ears to harmful noise levels. The app provides real-time feedback on current sound levels and explains what’s considered safe listening. It also displays historical data on your listening habits and alerts you if you approach unsafe volume levels.
For extra protection, I activated volume level notifications. Now, my Pixel Buds Pro 2 will notify me if I accidentally crank the volume too high, helping me safeguard my hearing health over the long term.
Built-In Cleaning Reminders
Earbuds often get overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 make it easier than ever to keep them fresh. The Pixel Buds app includes a cleaning reminder feature, complete with step-by-step instructions.
The earbuds and their case are sweat-resistant, which is a big plus for anyone who uses them during workouts. After my long run, the cleaning instructions in the app came in handy, ensuring my buds stayed in top condition.
Why the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Stand Out
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are more than just an incremental upgrade — they’re a reimagining of what wireless earbuds can be. From their tailored fit and superior noise cancellation to the innovative AI features and hearing wellness tools, these buds excel in every category. For anyone looking to enhance their audio experience while enjoying smart, user-friendly features, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are an excellent choice. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a busy professional, or an athlete, these earbuds cater to a wide range of needs.
Having spent nearly a week with the Pixel Buds Pro 2, I’m confident in saying they’ve set a new benchmark in wireless earbuds. With their thoughtful design, cutting-edge technology, and seamless integration with the Google ecosystem, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are easily my favorite new gadget of the year.