Google Pixel Buds 2a bring long-awaited improvements. They feature ANC and a design from the more expensive model

Google today officially unveiled the long-awaited Pixel Buds 2a earbuds, filling a perceived gap in the company’s portfolio. The new model finally brings active noise cancellation (ANC) to the more affordable category, which until now has been a privilege of more expensive models among Californian earbuds. For $129 (Czech price not yet announced), you get earbuds with a modern design inspired by the flagship Pixel Buds Pro 2 and practically complete features, including transparency mode and support for the Gemini AI assistant.

Design adopted from the more expensive Pixel Buds Pro 2

Pixel Buds 2a se vizuálně hlásí k prémiovým modelům Pro 2, od kterých si vypůjčily kompaktní tvar i charakteristické zpracování. Google tvrdí, že jde o nejmenší a nejlehčí sluchátka řady A-Series – každé sluchátko váží pouhých 4,7 gramu. Design vychází z analýzy více než 45 milionů skenů uší, díky čemuž by měla pohodlně padnout většině uživatelů.

An interesting feature is the twist-to-adjust stabilizer, which allows you to customize the fit of the earbuds with a simple twist. Twisting in one direction achieves a firmer grip for sports, while twisting in the opposite direction increases comfort for everyday wear. The package includes four sizes of ear tips (XS, S, M, L) for optimal sealing. The earbuds have IP54 certification, and the case is IPX4.

ANC debut in the A-Series thanks to the Tensor A1 chip

At the heart of the earbuds is the proprietary Tensor A1 chip, which reportedly processes sound 90 times faster than the speed of sound. It is thanks to this chip that the Pixel Buds 2a can offer active noise cancellation with Silent Seal 1.5 technology as the first model in the A-Series. The system combines hardware and software elements to effectively block ambient noise while maintaining natural sound.

In addition to ANC, the earbuds also offer a transparency mode for perceiving surroundings and an active in-ear pressure equalization feature. The audio is handled by an 11mm dynamic driver with redesigned acoustics and a high-frequency chamber. Users can customize the sound using a 5-band equalizer or activate spatial audio (only on compatible Pixel devices).

Battery life and charging

With ANC activated, the earbuds last 7 hours on a single charge; with noise cancellation off, they last 10 hours. The charging case extends the total battery life to 20 hours with ANC or 27 hours without it. Fast charging allows for an hour of listening after just 5 minutes in the case.

For the first time in its earbuds, Google has implemented a replaceable battery in the charging case, which significantly extends the product’s lifespan. Charging occurs via the USB-C port located on the case.

Gemini integration and advanced features

Pixel Buds 2a support the Gemini voice assistant, which can be activated by voice command (this method likely won’t work in our region) or a customizable gesture. Thanks to integration with Gemini Live, you can have natural conversations with AI without needing to pull out your phone – just ask for a news summary, a coffee shop recommendation, or directions.

The earbuds offer multipoint connectivity for simultaneous connection to multiple devices and seamless switching between them. For Pixel phone owners, the Find Hub feature is available, which shows the exact location of the earbuds on a map. Lost earbuds can even be rung, even when they are in the closed case. Control is provided by touch surfaces that respond to taps.

Availability and price

Google Pixel Buds 2a will be available in Iris (purple) and Hazel (black) colors. Pre-orders began today with a price of 3,690 CZK, with general sales starting on October 9, 2025.

Are you planning to get the new Pixel Buds 2a?