By: CE Critic

Google's latest flagship earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2, have arrived, promising advancements in sound, comfort, and AI integration. While retaining the core design of their predecessors, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 incorporate significant improvements, making them a compelling option in the competitive true wireless earbuds market.

Design and Comfort

• Smaller and Lighter: 27% smaller and 24% lighter than the original Pixel Buds Pro.
• Twist-to-Adjust Stabilizer: Ensures a secure and comfortable fit during various activities.
• Color Options: Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, and Peony Pink.

Audio and Performance

• Tensor A1 Chip: Google's custom chip for audio processing, active noise cancellation (ANC), and AI features.
• Silent Seal 2.0 with ANC: Enhanced noise cancellation adapts to your environment, blocking 2x the noise compared to the original Buds Pro.
• Improved Sound Quality: 11mm drivers and multi-path processing for powerful bass and smooth treble.
• Spatial Audio with Head Tracking: Immersive 3D audio experience (compatible with Pixel Tablet and Pixel 6 and newer phones).
• Clear Calling: AI-powered noise reduction for crystal-clear calls, regardless of the other person's device.

AI Integration

• Gemini Live: Engage in natural conversations with Google's Gemini AI assistant directly through the earbuds.
• Conversation Detection: Automatically pauses music and switches to transparency mode when you start talking.

Additional Features

• Find My Devices Support: Easily locate your earbuds using Google's Find My Device network.
• Seamless Device Switching: Effortlessly switch between connected Pixel devices.
• Bluetooth LE Audio: Future-proofed with support for the latest Bluetooth audio standard.
• Wireless Charging Case: Provides up to 30 hours of total listening time (8 hours with ANC on, 12 hours with ANC off).

Availability and Pricing

• Price: $229
• Pre-order: Available now on Amazon
• Release Date: September 26th

Comparison with Competitors

Can Pixel Buds Pro 2 Close the Gap?

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 bring substantial improvements over their predecessor and offer compelling features like enhanced ANC, improved sound quality, and unique AI integration with Gemini Live. While they may not fully match the audiophile-grade sound of the Sony WF-1000XM5 or the seamless ecosystem integration of the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen), they offer a strong value proposition, particularly for Pixel users.

The integration of Gemini Live could be a game-changer, providing a hands-free, natural way to interact with AI on the go. This, combined with the improved ANC and sound quality, could significantly narrow the gap between the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and the top-rated earbuds in the market.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 represent a significant step forward for Google's earbuds. They offer a compelling combination of improved audio performance, enhanced comfort, and unique AI features at a competitive price point. While the true test will come with real-world reviews, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 appear poised to make a strong impression and challenge the established players in the true wireless earbuds market. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score.