Google has unveiled a new and improved version of Google Pixel Buds called Google Pixel Buds Pro which will go on sale for pre-order on July 21, 2022.
Like Apple’s AirPods Pro, Google has equipped its latest true wireless earbuds with multipoint connectivity that allows them to pair with multiple devices simultaneously, active noise cancellation with a passthrough transparency mode and, later this year, spatial audio support.
That said, Google has its own tricks that even Apple doesn’t: the Pixel Buds Pro will still offer live translation for over two dozen languages and come with the built-in Google Assistant that lets you control your smart home. .
Best of all, they’ll be just $199 / AU$299 (around £160) when they’re available to everyone on July 28.
Analysis: Finally, a pair of Pixel Buds we can get behind
Pixel Buds have always been a decent option for Pixel phone owners, but haven’t quite ignited the world of true wireless earbuds. Lacking active noise cancellation and sound performance, Google’s headphones were simply very poor.
With the Pixel Buds Pro, Google seems intent on changing that opinion with a slew of new features, a revamped design and, of course, active noise cancellation.
The Buds that Google launched at Google IO are slightly larger than their predecessors – a result of Google including more microphones and a bigger battery inside the case. Although they’re bigger, Google says their team has done their homework to ensure they’re still comfortable to wear for hours on end thanks to a new sensor that measures pressure buildup in the ear canal.
The extra comfort will be crucial for Google to convince us that the Pixel Buds are ready to take on their Apple-made alter egos, as will their support for Spatial Audio which Google says won’t be ready until later this year.
If Google gets it all right with the Pixel Buds Pro, Android fans will have a de facto new pair of earbuds to go along with their new Google Pixel 7.