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Google unveils Pixel Buds 2a and new Pixel Buds Pro 2 features
August 20, 2025
- Pixel Buds 2a launch October 9 for $129 with ANC, a new stabilizer design, and a replaceable battery in the charging case.
- The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are also getting an update, with new features such as Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, and Gemini gesture support via a software update this fall.
Google is expanding its wireless earbuds lineup with the introduction of the Pixel Buds 2a, set to launch on October 9, with pre-orders beginning August 20. These are the lightest and most compact earbuds Google has released to date, featuring a refreshed design inspired by the Pixel Buds Pro 2. A new twist-to-fit stabilizer is aimed at providing a more secure and comfortable in-ear fit. The charging case is also smaller than ever and is designed with repairability in mind, including a user-replaceable battery—though it drops wireless charging in favor of USB-C only.
Despite the budget-friendly price tag of $129, the Pixel Buds 2a come equipped with features typically reserved for higher-end models. These include active noise cancelling powered by Silent Seal 1.5, a first for Google’s A-series earbuds, along with transparency mode. Google claims the Buds 2a offer 1.5x the ANC strength of the original Pixel Buds Pro, but we’ll need to put them through the SoundGuys testing lab in a full review to see if they live up to the hype.
Under the hood, the Pixel Buds 2a feature a custom 11mm dynamic driver and a redesigned high-frequency chamber. Audio tuning is customizable via a five-band EQ in the Pixel Buds app. On the call quality front, wind-blocking mesh covers and AI algorithms are said to improve clarity. Other features include Spatial Audio support (on Pixel 6 and above), Fast Pair, Multipoint connectivity, Find My Device support, and hands-free Gemini integration. Battery life is rated at seven hours with ANC active, and up to 20 hours with the case.
Alongside the new A-series model, Google is also updating the Pixel Buds Pro 2 with a new Moonstone color and a major software update rolling out this fall. The update will add Adaptive Audio, which balances awareness and noise reduction for better usability in urban environments, and Loud Noise Protection to safeguard hearing during abrupt loud sounds. New Gemini Live capabilities allow better voice interactions even in noisy settings, and head gestures can now accept or decline calls hands-free. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are priced at $229, and the Moonstone colorway will be available starting August 28.
Would you buy the Pixel Buds 2a, or the Pixel Buds Pro 2? Let us know in the poll below.
Would you buy the Pixel Buds 2a or the Pixel Buds Pro 2?
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