Here’s a quick rundown of Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 predictions and speculations.
The 2021 Google Pixel Buds A Series won over consumers with their clear audio quality, seamless Android integration, and snug fit.
Two years later, you might wonder if it’s still worth getting them or whether to wait for a potentially upgraded model.
To help you make an informed decision, we compiled a cheat sheet of what we know about the rumored Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 so far. Let’s dive in!
When Is the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 Release Date?
There is no official release date for the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 at the time of writing, but we expect them to arrive sometime in 2024. The estimation is based on the fact that Google tends to upgrade earbuds fairly regularly:
Model | Launch date |
---|---|
Google Pixel Buds | October 4, 2017 |
Google Pixel Buds 2020 | April 27, 2020 |
Google Pixel Buds A Series | June 17, 2021 |
Google Pixel Buds Pro | July 28, 2022 |
Judging by this schedule, we thought we would get an announcement about the second generation of Pixel Buds A Series in 2023. But as the October Made by Google event came and went with no news on the Series A front, a 2024 release is the earliest we can hope for.
What Will the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 Look Like?
Given that users love how the earbuds fit in their ears, the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 will likely keep the design of the original model. Fans even say they feel no discomfort during exercise or when wearing the earbuds for long hours.
On this note, we expect the second generation of Pixel Buds A Series to be lightweight and maintain a circular appearance. One of the best things about the Google earbuds is that very little of the ear tip goes into your ear canal, improving comfort, so we don’t believe the next model will be bulkier.
The earbuds will probably continue to feature a stabilizer arc and spatial vents that relieve in-ear pressure. Additionally, the Pixel Buds A Series 2 could be IPX4 resistant so that they can endure water and sweat splashes.
As for the case, we doubt it will undergo a design overhaul since the company will still want to keep production costs low to deliver the earbuds at a reasonable price. However, we wouldn’t mind additional colors, as the current palette is limiting.
What Features Can We Expect From the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2?
The Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 may come with all the features of the predecessor, including Adaptive Sound, Google Assistant integration, Translate, and Find device.
Besides, we expect them to pack even more functionality to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Here are our predictions for the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2:
- Active Noise Cancelation
- Better iOS compatibility
- Bluetooth Super Wideband, Clear Calling, and Conversation Detection
- “Find device” integration for the charging case
Active Noise Cancelation
While Google didn’t create the Pixel Buds A Series for users who want to tune out the world, Active Noise Cancelation (ANC) would be a game-changer. The original earbuds only feature Adaptive Sound, a feature that optimizes volume based on the noise level of your environment.
When the Pixel Buds A Series launched, Google hadn’t yet dabbled in ANC. Since then, however, the company launched the 2022 Pixel Buds Pro, its first wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation. The Pixel Buds A Series 2 might also pack ANC capabilities, especially if Google wants to stay competitive.
Better iOS compatibility
The Pixel Buds are made with Android users in mind. You can pair them with iOS devices like any Bluetooth headphones, but you miss out on several features.
Google might try to appeal to Apple fans by launching an iOS companion app similar to the Android one. Whether that will sway iPhone users to give the earbuds a go, we’ll let you debate in the comment section.
Bluetooth Super Wideband, Clear Calling, and Conversation Detection
In October 2023, Google launched a series of new Pixel Buds Pro features. The list includes Bluetooth Super Wideband, a technology that ensures clearer calls. It comes hand-in-hand with better Clear Calling capabilities, enhancing the caller’s voice.
Furthermore, users can activate Conversation Detection, a feature that automatically pauses music when you start speaking, resuming it when the conversation ends. Pixel Buds Pro users also enjoy a low-latency gaming mode and hearing wellness suggestions.
Despite the limited device availability at the time of writing, there’s a chance the upcoming Pixel Buds A Series 2 will offer these features as well.
“Find device” integration for the charging case
Pixel Buds users can take advantage of the Find device feature to locate their earbuds by playing a sound or pinpointing their last known location. Unfortunately, there’s no way to similarly track the charging case.
As Apple introduced Find My for the AirPods Pro 2 charging case, Google might follow suit with the Pixel Buds A Series 2. The ability to locate the charging case would be welcome, given that users misplace it more often than you might think.
What Do Users Want From the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2?
While most customers seem satisfied with their Google Pixel Buds A Series, they also have occasional grievances. After scouring forum posts, here’s what they would like to see from a revamped model:
- Volume touch controls: The most common complaint among Pixel Buds A Series fans is that, while the earbuds have touch controls, you can only adjust the volume from the connected device or by asking Google Assistant.
- Longer battery life: The earbuds offer up to 24 hours of listening time (case included), with some users stating it’s considerably less than competitors.
- Louder sound: While most users praise the audio quality, a few note that the earbuds are too quiet for their liking.
- Wireless charging case: Certain users would be willing to spend extra on a wireless case. The Google Pixel Buds A Series case only supports USB-C charging.
How Much Will the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 Cost?
We expect the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 to be slightly more expensive than the original model, but not by much.
One of the most appealing things about the Pixel Buds A Series is the $99 price tag. That said, Google seems to increase the Pixel Buds price by $20 with each subsequent release:
Model | Launch price |
---|---|
Google Pixel Buds | $159 |
Google Pixel Buds (2020) | $179 |
Google Pixel Buds Pro | $199 |
If they continue the trend, the Google Pixel Buds A Series 2 could retail for $119. Alternatively, the company may stick to the $99 price to keep the earbuds under the $100 mark.
Time will tell. For now, the original Google Pixel Buds A Series still make a great investment for Android users, especially if Active Noise Cancelation isn’t a priority for you.