At its annual Made by Gemini AI Features, Google once again leaned into its mission of blending artificial intelligence with everyday hardware. While much of the spotlight fell on the Pixel 10 series and Pixel Watch 4, the company also revealed exciting updates to its audio lineup: the Pixel Buds 2a and the refreshed Pixel Buds Pro 2. This year’s earbuds come packed with Gemini-powered intelligence, enhanced audio features, and design improvements that aim to set a new standard in how we interact with wireless headphones.
Pixel Buds 2a: Affordable Gets Smarter
Google’s Pixel Buds A-Series has always been known as the budget-friendly option in the family, offering a stripped-down experience compared to the Pixel Buds Pro. But with the launch of the Pixel Buds 2a, that gap just got much smaller. For the first time, these entry-level earbuds now include active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature previously reserved for the premium Pro line. This means users can now block out disruptive sounds in busy streets, gyms, or flights without needing to spend extra on the higher-tier model.
In addition to ANC, the Pixel Buds 2a are equipped with Clear Calling, powered by Google’s AI technology. This feature works together with the earbuds’ wind-blocking mesh covers to cut down on background noise during calls. Whether you’re walking in a crowded market or biking against the wind, your conversations are designed to remain sharp and uninterrupted.
Another major addition is Transparency Mode, a feature previously exclusive to the Pro series. This allows users to stay aware of their surroundings while still enjoying music or podcasts—perfect for outdoor activities where safety is key.
Perhaps the most exciting upgrade, however, is the integration of Gemini AI Features hands-free support. With just a simple voice prompt, users can ask Gemini to handle tasks like finding restaurants nearby, checking directions, reading out emails, or even pausing music. The idea is to keep your phone in your pocket while still staying connected to your digital world through the earbuds.
Battery life has also seen a dramatic improvement, now lasting up to twice as long as the original A-Series model. Combine this with the smallest and lightest A-Series design to date, an IP54 water- and sweat-resistance rating, and a redesigned twist stabilizer for adjustable comfort, and the Pixel Buds 2a look like a complete package for daily use. The earbuds retail at $130, available in new Hazel and Iris color options, and will officially hit shelves on October 9.
Pixel Buds Pro 2: Smarter, Safer, and More Adaptive
While the Pixel Buds 2a represent a leap forward for budget-conscious users, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 push the boundaries of what premium earbuds can do. As expected, Gemini is fully integrated here as well, but with even more advanced controls. For example, users can now accept or decline calls and messages simply by nodding or shaking their heads. This is made possible through built-in motion sensors and accelerometers, making the earbuds feel more intuitive than ever.
Gemini AI Features integration also goes deeper with app connectivity. Imagine adding items to a Google Keep shopping list or scheduling an event in Google Calendar—all without pulling out your phone. The earbuds are being positioned as not just audio devices, but wearable AI companions that help streamline small but meaningful daily tasks.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also introduce Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts your listening experience depending on the noise levels around you. This ensures that your music stays clear even in noisy environments, while still allowing you to remain aware of what’s happening nearby. In addition, Loud Noise Protection helps protect your ears by dampening sudden, harsh sounds like ambulance sirens or construction noise.
Available in a sleek new Moonstone color, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will cost $230. While many of these features won’t be available right at launch, Google has promised a September software update that will roll them out for both new and existing Pro 2 owners. Shipping begins August 28, with preorders already live.
A Step Toward AI-Powered Audio
These updates highlight a bigger story about where Google is heading with its hardware. The company isn’t just improving sound quality or battery life—it’s making earbuds a true extension of its Gemini AI platform. By combining active listening features, head-motion gestures, and app integrations, Google is moving toward a future where your earbuds are more than just accessories. They’re becoming hands-free control hubs for daily life.
It’s not hard to imagine where this might lead in the future. For example, earbuds could eventually translate languages in real-time during conversations, monitor health data like heart rate or stress levels, or even provide subtle contextual alerts—like reminding you of a meeting as you walk toward your office. With Gemini at the center, earbuds are evolving from simple audio tools into AI-powered personal assistants.
Looking Back: The Journey of Pixel Buds
To understand the significance of today’s launch, it’s worth looking at how far Pixel Buds have come. The first-generation Pixel Buds were released back in 2017 with mixed reviews, praised for their sound quality but criticized for comfort and connectivity issues. Over the years, Google refined the lineup with the Pixel Buds 2, the more affordable A-Series in 2021, and the introduction of the Pixel Buds Pro in 2022, which finally brought ANC to the series.
Last year, the Buds Pro received updates like volume EQ and multipoint connectivity, making them serious contenders against Apple’s AirPods Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup. Now, with the 2025 update, Google is adding a layer of intelligence powered by Gemini AI, putting them in direct competition not just in sound, but also in smarter, AI-driven features.
Final Thoughts
The Pixel Buds 2a and Pixel Buds Pro 2 mark a major step in Google’s plan to make its earbuds essential companions in everyday life. With features like active noise cancellation, adaptive audio, hands-free Gemini support, and even head-motion gestures, Google is reimagining what wireless earbuds can be.
For those who want affordability without losing out on premium features, the Pixel Buds 2a are now a strong contender. Meanwhile, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 push innovation further by weaving AI deeply into the listening experience. Both models show how Google is committed to using Gemini AI Features to make technology more natural, intuitive, and personal.
As these devices roll out later this year, it’s clear that Google isn’t just playing catch-up in the audio market—it’s laying the groundwork for the next era of AI-powered wearables.