The Pixel Buds Pro 2 aren’t just getting a new color; they’re getting smarter. Google announced a Feature Drop arriving in September, packed with new audio tricks, gesture controls, and smarter battery alerts. The update adds real-world utility to the $229 earbuds launching August 28.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 adapts to your environment
Leading the update is Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts how much sound reaches your ears. Stuck in traffic? It dials up the noise-canceling. Walking through a quiet park? It eases off. This new setting slides between full Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode, offering a better fit for changing surroundings.
Loud Noise Protection is coming too. Sudden sounds like sirens or subway screeches won’t spike in your ears. The buds will soften those outbursts without shutting out everything else.
The budget Galaxy Buds 3 FE pack ANC, Galaxy AI, and a refreshed design for $149.99. Available in the US from September 4.
Voice clarity gets a boost during Gemini sessions
During Gemini Live interactions, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will now isolate your voice while tuning out ambient noise. You’ll be able to speak to Google even if there’s background chatter or the TV’s on. This tighter voice targeting makes the assistant feel more usable in chaotic moments.
It’s a small improvement with an outsized impact, especially for city dwellers or shared households.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 adds head gestures to control calls
Hands full? Just nod. Or shake your head to ignore a call. Google’s motion sensors now support simple gestures to answer or reject calls and start message replies. The sensors detect head movements through the built-in accelerometer, without needing you to touch your earbuds at all.
This feature won’t stop with calls; either it lays the groundwork for more intuitive control.
Smarter notifications and better case awareness
The case is getting in on the upgrade, too. You’ll now get alerts when it’s fully charged or running low. While small, these notifications help avoid those moments where you assume your buds are ready only to find out they’re not.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 lands in new Moonstone finish
When the buds hit shelves on August 28, they’ll come in a deep navy blue Google calls Moonstone. It’s the same tone used for this year’s Pixel phones. The black interior and eartips offer a nice contrast, though the Pixel Buds 2a still win on color-matching details.
Either way, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are showing up with more than just polish; they’re getting sharper, smarter, and harder to ignore.
