Google recently introduced India to the latest Pixel 6a smartphone and the Pixel Buds Pro wireless stereo (TWS) earphones. These Google Pixel earbuds come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) support. One of the primary distinctions between the Pro variant and the previous generation Pixel Buds models is the addition of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) support.
These Google Pixel Buds Pro were initially displayed at the annual Google I/O 2022 event held in May. The search giant also revealed the Google Pixel Watch and Google Pixel 6a alongside the Buds Pro earbuds. Also Read: Poco M3 Pro 5G to launch on May 19, design and specs leaked online
Google Pixel Buds Pro in India
The Google Pixel Buds Pro TWS earphones are currently available for purchase on Flipkart. In addition to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) support with a Silent seal, the earphones also feature a dedicated transparency mode. Also Read: Poco M3 Pro launched as company’s first 5G phone in India
The Google Pixel Buds Pro can automatically switch between two devices, which is another noteworthy feature. In the Indian market, the Pixel Buds Pro will face competition from Apple’s AirPods Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro.
Google Pixel Buds Pro price in India
The newly launched Google Pixel Buds Pro TWS earbuds price starts at Rs 19990 on Flipkart in India. The TWS Bluetooth earphones are already available for purchase in India via Flipkart. Also Read: Realme Pad India launch date revealed, to debut with Realme 8s 5G, Realme 8i
These Pixel Buds Pro were first launched in the international markets with a price tag of USD 199, roughly Rs 15900 in May. The earbuds are available in four distinct color options – Charcoal, Coral, Fog, and Lemongrass.
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Specifications
The latest Pixel Buds Pro gets Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) built on a custom six-core audio chip that runs a Google-developed algorithm. Furthermore, it also gets a dedicated transparency mode, allowing users to hear ambient sounds. As mentioned above, the new TWS earbuds will succeed the Pixel Buds and A-series. Also Read: Realme X7 Max in India, followed by Smart TV 4K model
Google Pixel Buds Pro offers a hands-free Google Assistant experience. Besides these features, the Pixel Buds Pro also gets capacitive touch sensors with tap and swipe gesture support. Additionally, the Google Pixel Buds Pro gets an IPX4 splash resistance. Google claims that these TWS earbuds run on “Google Algorithms to put the focus on the music.”
Connectivity
Regarding connectivity, the Google Buds Pro can pair with any device supporting Bluetooth V4.0+, including Android and iOS devices and tablets and laptops. The latest Pixel Buds Pro users may now utilize the Find My Device app if they misplace one earpiece. Also Read: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 could launch in February
The charging case enables rapid charging, which may provide up to an hour of playback time after only five minutes of charging. It has a maximum listening time of 13 hours (without ANC). Moreover, the Google Charging case has IPX2 splash resistance. Also Read: Poco F3 GT to soon launch in India: Specifications, Price
As per a statement by Google, “Silent Seal helps Pixel Buds Pro adapt to the shape of your ear, for better sound. Later this year, Pixel Buds Pro will also support spatial audio to put you in the middle of the action when watching a movie or TV show with a compatible device and supported content.”
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Charging case
The Pixel Buds Pro charging case has a USB Type-C port for wired charging. Additionally, the Pixel Buds Pro TWS earbuds also support Qi Wireless charging. The earbuds have multipoint connectivity options, thus, allowing them to link with multiple devices at the same time. Also Read: New Windows 10 to ease wireless audio streaming with latest update
The search giant claims that the audio switching technology is based on its Fast Pair feature. It will allow users to find and pair their wireless headphones and earbuds to their Android phones and tablets. Users can save the details of these devices on their Google accounts.
How does the Fast Pair feature works?
Once saved in the Google account, the Fast Pair feature enables the headphones to immediately sync with all the other Android devices connected with this Google account. Google adds that the audio switching technology is built on the Fast Pair feature. Also Read: Apple Watch Series 7 with big display, stylish curvy design launched
This Fast Pair uses contextual information about what users listen to switch audio based on their actions. For example, if you are watching a video on your tablet and receive a notification on your phone, your headphone audio will not switch to your phone.
However, your headphone audio will change if you receive a phone call. During the announcement of its features, Google confirmed that the audio switching feature would also work with Bluetooth multipoint. Also Read: Google Pixel 6 series phones to launch with 5 years of Android update just like Apple
Thus, enabling users to connect up to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. Remember, Audio Switching Technology is slightly different from the Bluetooth multipoint. Also Read: OnePlus 10 Pro India Launch Imminent, OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G to Launch Soon
Audio Switching Technology
In Audio Switching Technology, wireless headphones or TWS earbuds can connect to two devices simultaneously, thus eliminating the need to switch between devices. With audio switching technology, Google hopes to make the switching more intelligent by understanding the user’s taste.
Availability
Regarding availability, Google stated that the new Pixel Buds Pro will support audio switching between Android phones and tablets via Bluetooth multipoint. In addition, the company stated that it would be introducing audio switching technology to select Sony and JBL headphones in the coming weeks. Also Read: Poco F3 could launch alongside Poco X3 Pro globally on March 22
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Review
For the third consecutive year in a row, Google launched the new true wireless earbuds named Google Pixel Buds Pro. In 2020 and 2021, the search giant debuted the previous gen Pixel Buds. Also Read: Realme C35 with 50MP AI triple camera; First Look: Price, Specifications
The newly launched TWS earphones have critical features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). The Pixel Buds Pro is an apparent upgrade over the last two gen of Google earbuds. Now, let’s take a deep look into these Pixel Buds Pro TWS earphones.
Pixel Buds Pro: Design
The newly launched Google Pixel Buds Pro is more of a mature sibling of the previous two-gen earbuds model. To recall, the Google Pixel Buds (2020) and the Pixel Buds A-Series come with a circular design with an ear tip off one side and a “stabilizer arc” on the other. Now, the latest Pixel Buds Pro gets more of an oval shape. Also Read: 2024 Apple iPad is likely to launch with Samsung OLED display: Reports
Both the Google Pixel Buds Pro are IPX4 rated. Similarly, the charging case of these newly launched Google Pixel Buds gets an IPX2 rating. The charging case is nearly identical to the one we already saw with the Pixel Buds A-Series. Also Read: Dell XPS 15, XPS 17 lineup refreshed with 12th Gen Intel Core processors
Shape and Size
The significant difference is that the inside of both the charging case doesn’t match in shape and size. Furthermore, the color of the earbuds also doesn’t match the color inside the charging case. The Pro earbuds model is slightly larger than the Pixel Buds A-Series. The battery status indicator is on the outside, so we didn’t have to open the lid to see the battery levels on the charging case. The pairing button is also at the back, and the USB Type-C charging port is at the bottom edge.
Opening the flat circular-shaped holder with your thumb is still enjoyable, and the tiny size fits neatly into a small pocket for transportation. Also Read: Indian Government asks WhatsApp to review its proposed privacy policy changes: Report
Touch Controls on Pixel Buds Pro
The new Pro model fits nicely in the ear’s contours with an oval shape. The TWS earbuds still get a defined circular area outside. Here, the earbuds accept the taps and swipe for the controls. It can perform different actions with a different tap – with a single tap (play/pause), with a double tap (skip track forward), and with triple taps (skip track backward).
The long press on the circular area will switch between ANC and transparency modes. To adjust the volume, swipe forward or backward. Moreover, a long press action can be easily configured to access the Google Assistant with Pixel Buds Pro. Also Read: ColorOS 13 Update: Features and Roadmap for compatible Oppo mobiles and tablets
If you configure the Assistant, you will have access to Assistant on one earbud and ANC controls on the other. Furthermore, we can also add the third option to turn on/off both ANC and transparency mode. Also Read: Instagram keeps an eye on its younger userbase safety, rolls out message features
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Features
During the Google I/O 2022 event, the search giant confirms that the new earbuds will use a six-core audio chip. Google’s algorithms power this chipset for active noise cancellation. Moreover, the company has also added a feature called Silent Seal, which works with Active Noise Cancellation. This feature maximizes the blocking and minimizes any sound leaks.
The Pixel Buds pro can quickly adapt to users’ ear shape when the ANC feature is turned on. With the presence of sensors, the earbuds constantly monitor the pressure and relieve it to keep things comfortable. All these features do an excellent job. Also Read: Realme to launch most affordable ANC earbuds on April 7
Transparency Mode
Besides ANC, the Google Pixel Buds Pro also offers a “transparency mode.” This mode is supposed to amplify and clarify the nearby audio. It can be helpful while having a conversation with someone sitting beside you. Also Read: Xiaomi Mi Mix 4 to launch with under-the-display camera
During the initial days, this mode is entirely unreliable. While interacting with people, we had to take the Pixel Buds pro earbuds out because the person’s voice got muffled. So, it wasn’t good during the initial days.
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Software
At the software level, the Google Pixel Buds Pro TWS earbuds are easily accessible via the Pixel Buds app through the Bluetooth menu. In the Pixel Buds app, tap on the gear icon next to the earbuds’ name. This will allow users to access every single piece of information about the Pixel Buds Pro. Also Read: Google Pixel 5a and new Pixel Buds in India
Furthermore, there is a shortcut option in the widget menu. It allows users to access the Pixel Buds Pro features with a single tap. Remember, these steps are for the Pixel phones only. For non-Pixel Android devices, we need to download the standalone Google Pixel Buds app from the Play Store. The rest of the steps and features are the same.
Google Pixel Buds App
Inside the Google Pixel Buds app, we can individually check the battery percentages for both earbuds. Besides the earbuds’ battery, the level for the charging case also appears when the earbuds are connected but still docked inside the charging case. Under this, we get the options for fine-tuning the Google Assistant, finding the lost earbuds, touch controls, sound modes, and much more. Also Read: Google Android 12 is here: Complete details about new design and features
With the new Google Pixel Buds Pro, we get a new option on the Pixel Buds app. With this option, we can turn on/off the automatic audio switching between Android and iOS devices. The same feature is also available for laptops. Also Read: OnePlus Buds Pro With improved ANC, Unexpected No India Launch
Under the sound option, we can also activate the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode. Furthermore, this option also provides the ability to disable Volume EQ. The Pixel Buds app also allows users to choose between HD audio and using them for calls and media audio.
With the Pixel Buds app, we can disable a lot of features as well, including features like in-ear detection, touch controls, and even Assistant. Also Read: Dell Alienware M16 and Alienware x14 R2: Revolutionizing Gaming Laptops
Google Assistant with Pixel Buds Pro
With Pixel Buds Pro, the Google Assistant can read out the notifications for multiple apps. It works with Google Translate as well. With Conversation Mode, Google Translate can offer real-time help in over 40+ languages. Also Read: Dual 4K screens support for Apple’s mixed-reality headset?
This is helpful, as the translated text appears in real-time. However, we noticed a slight delay while using Assistant for translation. This pause would make an in-person conversation awkward, especially if you aren’t looking at your phone. But it will help you in a pinch.
Pixel Buds Pro Bluetooth connectivity
In an early usage of Pixel Buds Pro, we can at least confirm that the Bluetooth signal consistency is a big step over the Buds 2. We haven’t detected a single drop in audio signal regardless of where or what we’ve listened to. Also Read: OnePlus Watch Design Revealed Ahead of March 23 Launch
This could be possible because of the big size of each earpiece. With the big size, the Buds Pro has more weight and is hefty than the Pixel Buds 2. Also Read: Google Pixel Android Foldable Phone coming soon
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Sound Quality
The previous generation Google Pixel Buds (2020) and the Pixel Buds A-Series lacked good quality sound. The search giant tried to improve the bass boost with the Pixel Buds A-Series, but the sound quality was still not up to the mark. With the launch of Pixel Buds Pro, Google has tried to overcome this issue.
The latest version of Pixel Buds Pro offers a pleasantly punchy bass across a wide range of genres. This time the company has done a commendable job with the impressive bass. Overall, the bass remains clear and tight, and it never becomes overbearing. Also Read: Pixel 6 release date in India
Highs and trebles are never placed correctly. The crucial sonic aspects are frequently muted, with Buds Pro smoothing down a cymbal’s twinkle or the sharpness of a synthesizer tone. Also Read: Tecno Spark 7 Pro launched with 90Hz display, 48-MP rear camera
On the other hand, other high-end sound effects are frequently overemphasized, such as the hammering of a kick drum being dragged out in a piercing manner, as if a shoe is directly stomping on my ear. Also Read: iPhone 2023 to use Apple made 5G modems instead of Qualcomm ones
Volume EQ
Volume EQ is a new function that Google has added to the Pixel Buds Pro. When you change the volume, the tuning changes so that “highs, mids, and lows are balanced and nuanced at any volume.” According to the company, this allows you to hear every part of a song, even at low levels. Volume EQ performs an excellent job here, and possibly the most impressive aspect is how the bass remains robust even when the volume is reduced. Also Read: Realme 8 with 4GB RAM/ 64 GB storage model launches in India
The vocals are crisp, and the subtlety in the guitar tones is still audible in the mix. Speaking of missing features, one such feature that the Google Pixel Buds Pro lacks is Spatial Audio. Google said it would upgrade the earbuds to accommodate immersive sound this fall, making them available for compatible movies and TV shows on Pixel phones.
The feature might be included with the Pixel 7 and Android 13, which are expected to be released around the same time. Also Read: Asus ROG Phone 6, ROG Phone 6 Pro with up to 18GB RAM launched; full review
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Call Quality
Like any other company, Google also made lofty claims about the “crystal clear” calls on the Pixel Buds Pro. The actual results can be very different from what we expect. According to Google, big external microphone openings are covered with mesh to reduce wind noise. In reality, everything seems to be just okay. The voice quality is decent.
Although, it is not very straightforward, as we experienced on many other earbuds. Furthermore, there was even a fuzziness in the audio during a video call. Talking about the positives, the Google Pixel Buds Pro did a decent job of blocking constant environmental noise. Also Read: Pixel 5a launch date in India
Mic Quality
Although Google advertises an upgraded microphone array for accepting phone calls in busy locations, we discovered that the mic array included in Buds 2 was already capable of filtering noise and elevating my audio, even in noisy circumstances. My buddies on the other end of the phone couldn’t tell the difference between the two in blind phone call testing.
Google Pixel Buds Pro: Battery Life
During the launch at Google I/O 2022, the search giant promised to offer up to seven hours of music playback time with active noise cancellation enabled. It can offer up to 11 hours of playback time with ANC disabled. Also Read: Mercedes Benz GLB, EQB electric SUVs launched in India; starts at Rs 63.8 lakhs
Meanwhile, the company claims we can expect around 20 hours of playback time with the fully charged Pixel Buds Pro case. Also Read: Google Pixel 5a release date, Pixel 5a vs 6
The newly launched Google Pixel Buds Pro comes with a wireless charging option. This feature was missing on the last year’s Pixel Buds A-Series. Although, the wireless charging feature was available on the Google Pixel Buds 2020. Also Read: Mahindra Scorpio N Bookings, test drive begins in 30 cities
Additionally, with five minutes of quick charging, the Pixel Buds Pro can offer an hour of playback time with ANC enabled. During our testing, these numbers were nearly spot-on. With ANC turned on, we got nearly seven hours of playback time. With ANC disabled, Google has nearly doubled the non-ANC playback time. Overall, when it comes to battery life, the company’s most expensive model has undoubtedly improved.
Google Pixel Pro Buds: Competition
Now with the launch of Pixel Buds Pro, Google will give direct competition to Apple’s AirPods Pro. Although, the two sets of earbuds aren’t direct competitors. Both Apple and Google serve different customers, and both companies offer premium features for their respective iOS and Android devices. Also Read: Affordable Realme Buds earbuds with ANC
Another company competing with the Pixel Buds Pro is Samsung’s Galaxy Buds lineup. To recall, the 2021’s Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro comes with similar features. These Galaxy Buds offer good sound quality, ANC, and other handy features.
According to reports, Samsung will launch a new pair of TWS earbuds right after the August 10 Galaxy Unpacked Event. The new earbuds could launch under the name Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. The only drawback with the Samsung Buds earphones was that it offers only five hours of battery.
Final Verdict
Google Pixel Buds Pro is the company’s most premium and best earbuds yet. All the features and specifications come with an improvement over the previous gen Pixel Buds 2020 and Pixel Buds A-Series.
Active noise cancellation and enhanced sound quality are outstanding and worth the extra cost. As long as Google can deliver spatial audio promptly and reliably, the only flaw is call quality, which may or may not be a deal breaker for you. Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 TWS earbuds specs, price in India with iPhone
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