Google recently released the Pixel Buds 2, a new pair of wireless earbuds. This updated model features a truly wireless design that is comfortable and water-resistant. They also come packed with tons of new features, like automatic volume adjustments, real-time translation, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Google Pixel Buds 2, including the release date, price, and more.
A Truly Wireless Design
At first glance, the latest Pixel Buds look quite similar to the previous model, with one major exception. This second-generation model is missing the neck strap that used to connect the earbuds. Instead, these truly wireless earbuds now fit perfectly in your ear, without anything hanging over your earlobe.
The Google Pixel Buds 2 are built with three anchor points that keep them securely in your ears. Each earbud also comes with three sizes of soft silicone ear tips, so you’ll always have a comfortable fit.
Easy Touch Controls
At first glance, you might notice the surface area of the new Google Pixel Buds is much larger than most other earbuds on the market. This flat and round design makes it easy to use touch controls.
All you have to do is tap either earbud to start playing music or swipe forward to increase the volume. You can also tap to answer a call, double-tap to end a call, or touch and hold your earbud to use the Google Assistant.
If you don’t like using touch controls, you can just ask Google a question by saying something like, “Google, what’s the weather going to be like tomorrow?”
Water-Resistant
The Google Pixel Buds have an IPX4 water-protection rating. This means they are protected from water and sweat splashes, no matter what direction they come from. So, you won’t damage them by exercising or getting caught in the rain.
Take note, however, that a device’s water-resistance will degrade over time. This will happen with normal wear and tear, but especially if they have been repaired or damaged.
Adaptive Sound and Built-in Sensors
The Google Pixel Buds 2 have an Adaptive Sound feature that adjusts the volume based on outside noises. This means you can listen to your music while jogging, and you won’t have to change the volume when you go inside.
Additionally, these earbuds have built-in sensors and mics that focus on the sound of your voice and suppress background noise. This means you won’t have any problems hearing someone on the other side of the line, even when you’re in a noisy area. Plus, you can enjoy every nuanced detail of your favorite songs, and you will still be able to hear what’s going on around you.
A Sleek New Charging Case
The Google Pixel Buds 2 have a battery that will last up to 5 hours while listening to music or 2.5 hours while making calls. The charging case provides up to 24 hours of additional battery life for listening to music and about 12 hours for making phone calls. Plus, it only takes a 10-minute charge in the case to give you about 2 hours of listening time, and about half that for making calls.
The wireless charging case of the new Google wireless earbuds has been redesigned, too. It looks a lot like the charging case for Apple’s AirPods. However, the case for the Pixel Buds 2 has a matte finish.
Real-Time Translation
When paired with the Google Translate app, these earbuds are able to translate dozens of languages in real-time. All you have to do is say “Google, help me speak Spanish” to launch conversation mode in the app. Then, you will hear the translated message directly through the Pixel Buds.
When it comes time to respond, you can use the Google Translate app to speak to them in their language. Take note, however, that these features only work on phones with Android 6.0 and up.
If you are looking for ways to learn another language, check out our list of the best free language-learning apps here.
Google Pixel Buds 2 Release Date and Price
You can order the Google Pixel Buds 2 now through Google’s website. You can choose between 4 different colors, including Clearly White, Oh So Orange, Quite Mint, and Almost Black. Each model costs $179 without accessories.
The Pixel Buds might seem expensive, but they are much cheaper than the Apple AirPods Pro, which are currently priced at $249.
If you’re in the market for a new pair of headphones, check out our list of the best truly wireless earbuds here.
