At Google’s annual developer conference, called I/O, the company often announces a series of products. Not all products will (officially) come to Europe, but the Pixel Buds Pro will. Will these be the ultimate Android earphones?
Google uses its own Pixel brand to show what Android has to offer. Previously this happened with Nexus and bare Android software, but for Pixel Google chooses to partially adjust the software. That means there’s room for extra parts, and so are ingrained options for wireless earbuds. If OnePlus and Samsung can do it, so can Google.
It’s no secret that the wireless earbud market is pretty saturated, especially at the higher end. Sony, Sennheiser and Apple are all doing their best to stay on top. And now Google is also doing its bit with the Pixel Buds Pro, which it announced at I/O 2022.
Also read: What are the best earphones? 18 bluetooth in-ears tested
Google Pixel Buds Pro announced
At first glance, the Pro resemble the previously launched Pixel Buds from 2020. But there are significant differences. For example, the silicone caps are now slightly deeper in the ear canal of the wearer. Various sensors must ensure that the pressure does not become unpleasant, so that you can wear them comfortably for a long time. In addition, Google supplies three types of caps, with a Silent Seal. That seal should ensure that the active noise cancellation works properly.
The Silent Seal works together with various algorithms to counteract maximum soundproofing. The earplugs themselves contain a processor that has six cores, which should, among other things, ensure a good audio experience. In addition, the Pixel Buds Pro have Fast Pairing (a well-known feature) and Volume EQ; the earplugs thus optimize the audio on their own.
It is also the case that the Google earplugs can effortlessly switch between paired devices that have Bluetooth 4.0 or higher. You don’t have to open Bluetooth settings on a device for this, that’s the promise. In addition, there is a bluetooth multipoint, which makes it possible to connect the set to two devices at the same time (such as a telephone and PC).
The Google Pixel Buds Pro last up to eleven hours on a full battery (seven hours with active noise cancellation active). Charging is via USB-C; wireless charging is not possible. Later this year they will have access to spatial audio, which, for example, Apple is making a furore with on the AirPods Pro. Google uses its own technology and knowledge for this.
Finally, it is good to know that the earplugs have an ipx4 certificate, and the box an ipx2 variant. You can also address the Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” out loud. The Google Pixel Buds will appear on the market in June and have a price tag of 219 euros. That is comparable to the high-end offerings from Sony, Sennheiser and Apple.
†