Google's Pixel Buds Pro have evolved significantly since their debut in 2022. This timeline highlights the most important updates, features, and milestones, from firmware patches to the introduction of the Pixel Buds Pro 2. The original Pixel Buds Pro remain a solid choice, especially with recent discounts, while the Pro 2 bring meaningful improvements.
Initial Launch and Early Updates
Introduced in July 2022, the Pixel Buds Pro were Google's first premium noise-canceling earbuds, featuring active noise cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode, and Google Assistant integration. Early firmware updates improved connectivity and audio quality. In December 2025, Google rolled out a new firmware update for the original Pixel Buds Pro, addressing stability and performance.
Pixel Buds Pro vs. Pro 2: Key Differences
In September 2024, Google launched the Pixel Buds Pro 2. A detailed comparison video highlighted upgrades like improved ANC, a smaller design, and better battery life. The Pro 2 also introduced a new chip for faster switching between devices. However, the original Pixel Buds Pro remain capable, especially after a clearance sale in January 2025 that dropped the price to $109.99 on Woot, almost 50% off.
Featured Software Updates: Conversation Detection and Noise Control
October 2023 brought a major software update (version 5.9) to the original Pixel Buds Pro. The headline feature was Conversation Detection, which automatically pauses audio and switches to Transparency mode when you start speaking. In September 2024, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 gained Noise Control in the Android 15 Volume menu, allowing quick switching between ANC and Transparency without opening the settings app.
Gemini Integration and Google Assistant
In September 2024, Google confirmed that all Pixel Buds (including the Pro, Pro 2, and A-Series) would support the Gemini LLM. This update enhanced the assistant's capabilities, enabling natural language interactions and contextual queries. Earlier, in February 2024, a user reported that using Gemini on the phone while relying on Google Assistant through Pixel Buds Pro created a balanced workflow.
How to Use EQ Settings on Pixel Buds Pro
The ability to customize sound via equalizer (EQ) settings arrived on the original Pixel Buds Pro months after launch. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 inherited the same feature. A guide published in September 2024 explained how to adjust EQ in the Pixel Buds app: navigate to Sound > Equalizer and slide the bands for bass, treble, and mids.
New Colors and Replacement Cases
In October 2023, Google added two new color variants to the Pixel Buds Pro: Bay Blue and Porcelain (or Sky Blue, as leaked earlier). These matched the Pixel 8 series. The same month, Google began selling replacement cases for the original Pixel Buds Pro in the US, solving a common problem of losing the charging case. Previously, only earbud replacements were available.
Hearing Wellness and Web App Support
Also in October 2023, the Pixel Buds app introduced "Hearing Wellness" features, including headphone audio level monitoring and exposure warnings. A web app for Chromebooks allowed users to manage settings like ANC and EQ without a phone. The web app is accessible at buds.google.com.
Find My Device Integration
In April 2024, Google's revamped Find My Device network added support for locating the Pixel Buds Pro even when they are offline. The same update extended offline finding to the Pixel 8 series, allowing them to be located while turned off.
Touch and Hold Changes
In September 2024, some users reported that the "touch and hold" gesture on the original Pixel Buds Pro stopped reading notifications. Google acknowledged the change, which was part of a broader update to simplify gesture controls.
Clearance Sales and Discounts
By January 2025, the Google Store had stopped selling the original Pixel Buds Pro following the launch of the Pro 2. However, third-party retailers like Woot offered clearance deals: brand-new original Pixel Buds Pro for $109.99 (almost 50% off). Earlier, in September 2023, Google emailed 40% off promotional codes for the Pixel Buds Pro to select customers.
Rumors and Future Developments
Since early 2024, rumors have circulated about a potential Pixel Buds Pro 3 or further updates. While nothing official has been announced, the success of the Pro 2 and continued support for the original model suggest Google remains committed to the series. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 reportedly have a larger battery case, and future models may include improved ANC and maybe spatial audio.
Opinions and User Feedback
In November 2023, a reviewer noted that the original Pixel Buds Pro remained a favorite for everyday use but called for better ANC in the sequel—a wish that the Pro 2 largely fulfilled. Others have praised the fit, sound quality, and seamless integration with Pixel phones. The addition of Conversation Detection was widely welcomed as a practical hands-free feature.
The Pixel Buds Pro story is far from over. With regular firmware updates, new integrations like Gemini, and continued availability at discounted prices, these earbuds offer excellent value. For those debating between the original and the Pro 2, the differences are clear but the originals remain a strong contender, especially for those on a budget. Google's long-term support makes the Pixel Buds Pro a solid investment for Android users.
Source: 9to5Google News