Here are our insights, predictions, and wishlist for the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2.
The Google Pixel Buds Pros stand out in the wireless earbuds market with their high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and smooth Google service integration.
But with no news of a new version since 2022, buyers are still determining whether to get the current Pixel Buds Pro or wait for a Pixel Buds Pro 2 release.
Despite the lack of credible leaks, we can still make educated guesses about what the Pixel Buds Pro 2 might feature. Read on to learn more!
When Is the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Release Date?
Google expanded its Pixel Buds lineup between 2017 and 2022 with the following models:
- Google Pixel Buds (Gen 1) – October 2017
- Google Pixel Buds (Gen 2) – April 2020
- Google Pixel Buds A-Series – June 2021
- Google Pixel Buds Pro – July 2022
Google’s release pattern shows a one-year gap between the launch of Pixel Buds Gen 2, the A-Series, and the Pro models. However, these are distinct models that come with their own set of features and price points.
As such, it might be more insightful to consider the gap between two models of the same series, like the Pixel Buds Gen 1 and 2, which is three years. If Google follows a similar timeline for its Pro series, we could anticipate the arrival of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 by 2025.
What Will the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Look Like?
Many users have expressed dissatisfaction with the Pixel Buds Pro due to their unstable fit. Others also said they had difficulties in keeping them secure during everyday activities.
To enhance comfort and stability, Google might refine the Pixel Buds Pro 2 design, perhaps maintaining the iconic rounded shape but in a more compact, ergonomic form. Additionally, they could also have a rubberized finish for better grip and more ear tip sizes or different materials for a custom fit.
Given their popularity among users, we also expect the Pixel Buds Pro 2 to retain their current six color options. Conversely, as the Pixel Buds Pro colors are designed to coordinate with Pixel phones, we might also see new colors if Google unveils another phone in 2025.
What Features Can We Expect From the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2?
We expect the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds to keep key features from the Pixel Buds Pro.
Still, Google could further upgrade some features to improve user experience and functionality. These include the following:
Better ANC and Adaptive Sound
The Pixel Buds Pro are Google’s first earbuds with ANC, using Google’s own custom processor and algorithms and Silent Seal™ to block out noise.
However, the noise control settings are limited to On, Off, and Transparency Mode, and they don’t offer detailed adjustments like those seen in other high-end earbuds. As such, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 may offer more advanced and customizable noise cancellation levels to keep up with competitors.
Unlike the original Pixel Buds, the Pixel Buds Pros also don’t have Adaptive Sound.
Instead, you need to change noise cancellation settings in the Pixel Buds app manually. That said, Google might bring back Adaptive Sound in the Pixel Buds Pro 2, enabling automatic audio adjustment to ambient noise for a better user experience.
Better Bluetooth connectivity
Given the Google Pixel Buds Pros use the older Bluetooth 5.0, we anticipate an upgrade to Bluetooth 5.2 or newer for the Pixel Buds Pro 2.
This would offer enhanced connection stability, support higher-quality codecs like aptX, LDAC, and LC3 for improved audio, low power consumption with LE Audio, and allow audio sharing across multiple devices via Auracast.
Better iOS integration
The Pixel Buds Pros are designed for Pixel phones, restricting iOS users from features like Voice Assistant, spatial audio, and the 5-band equalizer. Updating the firmware without a dedicated Pixel Buds app on iOS is also challenging. So, enhancing iOS compatibility is a logical step for Google to avoid sidelining potential customers.
What Do Users Want From the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2?
Despite the Pixel Buds Pros’ fit issues, most users are generally happy with how these earbuds perform. However, this doesn’t rule out speculation about the next iteration and the improvements it might bring.
We’ve gathered a list of enhancements users are hoping to see in the Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- Stabilizer arcs: Google removed the ear tip fins or “stabilizer arcs” that came with the Pixel Buds Gen 2 and A-Series earbuds. This left Pixel Buds Pro users lamenting their loss and wanting the feature back. Reintroducing stabilizer arcs could address these comfort and fit concerns for future models.
- Louder volume: Users and critics have observed that the Pixel Buds Pros need to be at 80% volume for the best sound, suggesting they’re quieter than expected. Although some suggest the earbuds are quieter “by design,” improving this feature could make them more enjoyable.
- Better battery life: Many Pixel Buds Pro users have reported battery life falling short of the advertised 11 hours, with some experiencing 4-7 hours of playtime instead. Disabling certain features, like Conversation Detection, has been proposed as a workaround. However, users should receive the promised battery life without turning off features.
- Better Transparency Mode: Another complaint is that Transparency Mode is less effective than expected, with some noting difficulties in hearing conversations while the feature is activated. This is a significant issue for those with hearing challenges.
- Better codec support: The Pixel Buds Pros’ lack of aptX and LDAC support is a letdown, given their US$200 price tag. Adding these high-quality audio codecs would better justify their cost for those seeking superior sound.
How Much Will the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Cost?
Google has always priced its Pixel Buds series below US$200. The Pixel Buds Gen 1 and 2 were US$159 and US$179, respectively. The A-Series sells for US$99, while the Pros are currently US$199.99.
Each new generation of Google’s Pixel Buds, including the Gen 1, Gen 2, and the Pros, saw a US$20 increase in price at launch. This trend and potential feature enhancements might set the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s release price around $210-220.