Google’s latest Made by Google event unveiled significant upgrades to its Pixel Buds lineup, introducing the Pixel Buds 2a and a refreshed Pixel Buds Pro 2, both packed with AI-powered features and enhanced hardware. The Pixel Buds 2a, the second generation of Google’s budget-friendly A-Series earbuds, now feature active noise cancellation (ANC), a first for the line, alongside improved audio processing and a new design. Equipped with a Tensor A1 chip, the earbuds unlock full Gemini hands-free support, allowing users to interact with Google’s AI assistant via voice commands without needing their phone—tasks like checking emails, finding nearby restaurants, or controlling music are now accessible on the go. The earbuds also include AI-driven wind and background noise reduction, Transparency Mode (previously exclusive to the Pro line), and a replaceable battery, making them more repairable than before. Battery life has doubled, offering up to 10 hours with ANC off and seven hours with it on, with the case adding 20 more hours. They’re IP54-rated for sweat and water resistance and come with four eartip sizes and a twist stabilizer for a customizable fit. Priced at $129.99, they’re available in new Hazel and Iris colors. The Pixel Buds Pro 2, while retaining its premium design, is getting a major software update later in September. The most notable addition is gesture control: users can accept or decline calls and messages by shaking their head or nodding, thanks to built-in accelerometers. The Pro 2 also gains deeper integration with Gemini, enabling users to interact with apps like Keep and Calendar directly through voice commands. Features like Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts noise levels, and Loud Noise Protection, which dampens sudden loud sounds, further enhance user experience. The Pro 2 will be available in a new Moonstone color and priced at $230. All existing Pro 2 owners will receive these updates via a free software release. These updates reflect Google’s broader strategy of embedding AI across its hardware ecosystem. The Pixel 10 series, unveiled alongside the earbuds, features the new Tensor G5 chip—manufactured by TSMC—boosting on-device AI performance by 60%. The Pixel Watch 4 also received a major AI overhaul, with Gemini integration and improved repairability. Meanwhile, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL introduce Pro Res Zoom, a generative AI feature that enables usable 100x digital zoom by filling in image gaps with AI, a significant leap from traditional upscaling. Google is also expanding its ecosystem with new accessories, including magnetic wireless charging cases for the Pixel 10 series, supporting Qi2 standard. The company’s AI push extends beyond devices—Stephen Curry has been signed as a brand ambassador to promote Pixel, health, and AI initiatives. While the Pixel Buds 2a and Pro 2 aren’t the headline acts, they represent a key step in Google’s vision of making AI accessible and seamless across everyday devices. By integrating Gemini, improving hardware like ANC and battery life, and prioritizing repairability, Google is positioning its earbuds as essential, future-ready components of its AI-first ecosystem. The upgrades signal a shift toward on-the-go, hands-free AI interaction, aligning with the company’s broader move into Android XR and smart glasses. Though some features are software-only and not immediately available, the foundation is set for a more intelligent, connected user experience across Google’s hardware portfolio.