Google's New Pixel Buds Get Upgraded with Enhanced Gemini AI

Continuing the trend from last year, Wednesday's Made By Google event highlighted a wide array of Gemini capabilities, including AI-powered photography and editing tools for the Pixel 10 series, as well as improvements for the Pixel Watch 4. With these announcements, it was no surprise that Google also introduced Gemini functionality for its newest earbuds—the Pixel Buds 2a and an upgraded Pixel Buds Pro 2.

Key highlights from the event include the debut of active noise cancellation for the Pixel Buds 2a, along with an AI-powered feature that suppresses background noise. The Pro 2 earbuds, meanwhile, will gain a significant update enabling users to accept or decline calls and messages simply by nodding or shaking their head.

Pixel Buds 2a

The Pixel Buds 2a mark the second generation of the A-Series earbuds, Google’s more budget-friendly option in its audio lineup. These new earbuds feature substantial upgrades, bringing them closer in performance to the original Pixel Buds Pro.

For the first time in the A-Series, active noise cancellation has been added—a major step up from the previous model, which had no noise reduction. Now, the Pixel Buds 2a can effectively block out distracting external sounds, resulting in clearer conversations.

Another new addition is Clear Calling, which uses Google AI to minimize background noise. Combined with the earbuds’ wind-blocking mesh covers, this helps eliminate distractions so both you and the person you’re speaking with can hear each other clearly.

Transparency Mode is also coming to the Pixel Buds 2a, a feature previously exclusive to the Pixel Buds Pro. This mode lets you hear your surroundings while continuing to listen to audio, helping you stay aware of your environment.

Gemini hands-free support is included as well, allowing you to interact with the AI assistant for tasks like finding nearby restaurants, getting directions, reading new emails, or pausing music—all without taking out your phone.

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Battery life has also been significantly improved, now offering up to twice the longevity of the original A-Series model.

In terms of design, these are the smallest and lightest A-Series earbuds to date, and they come with a compact charging case. An IP54 rating makes them sweat- and water-resistant, ideal for workouts or getting caught in the rain.

Another design update that brings the budget earbuds closer to the Pixel Buds Pro is the twist stabilizer. Users can twist the earbuds counterclockwise for a secure fit or clockwise for a more relaxed, comfortable feel.

Reflecting these new features, the Pixel Buds 2a come at a higher price point. They retail for $130—up from under $100 for the previous model—and are available in two new colors: Hazel and Iris.

Pixel Buds Pro 2

The Pixel Buds Pro 2, which launched last year, are also receiving substantial updates.

As anticipated, these earbuds include Gemini hands-free support, but they also come with extra capabilities. You can now accept or decline calls and messages by nodding or shaking your head, with built-in accelerometers and sensors detecting these gestures.

What’s more, when using Gemini, you can now connect to other apps—such as adding items to a shopping list in Keep or scheduling events in Calendar.

Other standout features include Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts to surrounding noise levels to reduce distractions while keeping you aware of your environment. Loud Noise Protection is also included, which softens sudden loud sounds to help protect your hearing from noises like a passing siren.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 retail for $230 and come in a new Moonstone color. It’s worth noting, however, that most of these new features won’t be available right away—they’ll be rolled out via a software update later in September. All existing Pro 2 users will receive the update.

Pre-orders for the Pixel Buds 2a and the enhanced Pro 2 are open now. The Pro 2 will begin shipping on August 28, while the Pixel Buds 2a will be available starting October 9.