The product is simply called Pixel Buds, perhaps as Google tries to erase the identically named first-gen version from history. We reviewed them, and they were absolutely terrible.
The new version, which is still not on sale in the UK, makes the design true wireless with no fabric cord linking the buds like the first time round. The case is smaller and much more robust, but the basic circular design of the buds with the touch controls on the outside remains similar.
Google has also added an improved wing system for better fit and leaned into the Google Assistant features touted on the first-gen. While it remains to be seen if Pixel Buds can be a market leader in earbuds, they will certainly be the best for Assistant integration and use with Pixel phones – but this is still a small market overall.
A normal in-ear silicon tip design mercifully returns. The first Pixel Buds had a one-size-doesn’t-fit-all plastic tip that hurt when worn for long periods of time.
At the time of writing, the Pixel Buds are available directly from Google in the US for $179 in Clearly White. Three other colours (that only affects the plastic touch pad on each bud) Almost Black, Quite Mint and Oh So Orange are still unavailable.
Henry is Tech Advisor’s Phones Editor, ensuring he and the team covers and reviews every smartphone worth knowing about for readers and viewers all over the world. He spends a lot of time moving between different handsets and shouting at WhatsApp to support multiple devices at once.
