Summary
- Google is rolling out firmware update version 44.467 to Pixel Bud Pro 2 units.
- This update introduces head gestures, Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, and clearer Gemini Live interactions.
- The update is rolling out “gradually” to all users, though you can manually check for it within the Google Pixel Buds app.
Google is rolling out a new firmware update for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 that brings with it a host of new features to the wireless earbuds’ experience. With version 44.467, the company is introducing a new head gesture interaction system, Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, and more advanced audio processing that prioritizes voice and eliminates background noise for clearer Gemini Live interactions.
With the new head gestures, Buds Pro 2 users can now nod their head yes to answer a phone call or reply to a text message, or shake their head to decline a call. Adaptive Audio works by “dynamically reducing the volume of unwanted noises and sounds” to keep you aware of your surroundings. Loud Noise Protection, meanwhile, detects potentially damaging ambient noise levels and muffles the sound in real time to protect your hearing.
According to Google, this update is being rolled out “gradually” to all users. To ensure that you receive the new firmware version as soon as possible, you can manually check for updates by going to the Google Pixel Buds app and navigating through More settings > Firmware update > Manual update available. Eventually, the update will be pushed out automatically to all Pixel Buds Pro 2 users regardless, so long as they’re connected to a Pixel phone or another device running Android 6.0 or newer.
Google says the update takes approximately ten minutes to download, and an additional ten or fifteen minutes to install. The installation itself only occurs when the earbuds are placed within their charging case, and when they have enough battery life available at their disposal.
A solid grab bag of new additions
There’s nothing quite like a post-release feature drop
- Battery Life
-
Up to 12 hours
- Charging Case Included?
-
Yes
- Microphones
-
Three
- Brand
-
Google
- Bluetooth
-
5.4
- IP Rating
-
IP54
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the first earbuds to be built on the Tensor A1 chipset. The earbuds support Google AI, paired with ANC and Silent Seal 2.0 technology for improved noise cancellation.
Contrary to what Google’s uncharacteristically under-the-radar announcement style here would suggest, the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s new version 4.467 firmware update is a relatively meaty package. Adaptive Audio is a welcome lifestyle addition that’ll come in handy while out and about with the earbuds, and Loud Noise Protection is the sort of health and safety feature I wish every headphone maker would adopt.
The advancements made to audio processing in noisy environments are appreciated, though I’m personally not one to talk to my virtual AI assistant when out in a public setting. However, the real star of the show is undoubtedly the new suite of head gestures, which streamlines communications without requiring you to lift a finger.
I will say it’s unfortunate that the first-generation Pixel Buds Pro aren’t receiving these new additions.
Sure, nodding and shaking to accept or decline calls isn’t new in the wearable audio space, but I welcome its inclusion nonetheless. It’s hard to complain when you’re getting a post-launch feature drop free of charge, as it only adds value to an already solid true wireless earbuds package from Google.
I will say it’s unfortunate that the first-generation Pixel Buds Pro aren’t receiving these new additions. I reckon the Tensor A1 powering the Buds Pro 2 is doing a solid amount of processing legwork that the first-gen Buds Pro’s chip simply can’t keep up with. It does make me wonder if Google’s mid-range Pixel Buds 2a — which also happen to be powered by the Tensor A1 — are destined to receive a similar feature drop at some point in the near future.
