During Google‘s Made by Google event, the tech giant unveiled a significant firmware update for its 2022 earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro. This update follows Google’s commitment to enhancing its flagship earbuds since their initial release last year. The latest software upgrade introduces several new features, further cementing the Pixel Buds Pro as a formidable competitor in the world of wireless earbuds.

Conversation Detection: Google is taking a page out of Apple and Sony’s playbook by introducing conversation detection. With this feature, the Pixel Buds Pro’s AI technology can recognize when you start speaking and will automatically pause your music while activating transparency mode. This convenient function allows users to engage in quick chats without fumbling for their earbuds or phones. Once the conversation ends, everything seamlessly returns to its previous state, including the reactivation of active noise cancellation (ANC).

Improved Call Quality: Addressing a common complaint from users, Google claims to have enhanced call quality significantly. The Pixel Buds Pro now supports Bluetooth Super Wideband, doubling the bandwidth for voices. According to Google, this improvement results in clearer and fuller sound quality during calls. Additionally, the introduction of Clear Calling on Pixel helps reduce background noise on the recipient’s end, ensuring better call clarity.

Hearing Health: Recognizing the importance of hearing health, Google’s update provides users with more information about their listening habits. The Pixel Buds app now monitors and reports on listening volume over time, alerting users when it’s advisable to lower the volume to protect their hearing.

Low-Latency Gaming Mode: Gamers will appreciate the automatic activation of a low-latency mode when using the Pixel Buds Pro with a compatible title on a Pixel phone. Google claims that this mode reduces latency by half compared to the previous software version, enhancing the gaming experience.

Chromebook Integration: Google has expanded the functionality of its Pixel Buds app to include compatibility with Chromebooks. This update allows users to easily access settings, noise control modes, and firmware updates directly from their Chromebook devices.

New Color Options: In keeping with Google’s penchant for color coordination, the company is introducing two new colorways for the Pixel Buds Pro: Bay and Porcelain. These options complement the design of the new Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel Watch 2, in addition to the existing four colors available for $199.99 wireless earbuds.

• Google Pixel 8 — $699 at Google / Amazon / Best Buy
• Google Pixel 8 Pro — $999 at Google / Amazon / Best Buy
• Google Pixel Watch 2 — $349.99 at Google / Amazon / Best Buy
• Google Pixel Buds Pro — $199.99 at Google / Amazon / Best Buy

The Pixel Buds Pro software update began rolling out on the same day of the announcement, making these exciting features accessible to both new and existing users.