Although the Google Pixel Buds Pro came with great hardware, it did not have the software features the competitors had.
That is, the True Wireless Stereo (TWS) buds have somewhat flown under the radar for not having premium features. But with the latest update, the buds might have what it takes to pull ahead.
The Pixel Buds Pro already comes with a proper noise-canceling feature. It even has sensors that detect whether you are wearing the buds.
Also, there is multipoint technology, allowing the buds to connect with multiple devices simultaneously. All of these features aligned the buds with the current high-end TWS buds.
However, the Google Pixel Buds Pro lagged due to not offering any 3D Audio feature. That is exactly why buyers considered the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 over the Pixel Buds Pro.
With the new firmware, the Pixel Buds Pro will align more with the competitors. It brings spatial audio support, enabling the users to get a surround sound effect.
The Google Pixel Buds Pro even gets dynamic head tracking. That will ensure that the spatial audio sounds are positioned according to the orientation of your head. Want to know how you can get the update for your Google Pixel Buds Pro?
Google is rolling out the update automatically. However, you must pair the buds with a Pixel 6 or 7 device. Otherwise, the buds will not receive the update.
Furthermore, your Pixel 6 or Pixel 7 device should be in the latest version of Android. When every requirement is met, just go to Settings, click Sound & Vibration, and enable Spatial Audio from your phone.
To enable the Head Tracking feature, you need to find the Google Pixel Buds Pro from the list of connected devices. And then press the settings cog, which will offer you the option to enable the feature.
But don’t expect to get the full experience of the new features immediately. To get the spatial audio and head tracking features working, you must listen to or watch content with 5.1+ surround sound. Don’t know where you can find content such as that?
Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney Plus already have many movies and TV shows with 5.1+ surround sound. Just select one, and you will be ready to enjoy the new features of the Google Pixel Buds Pro.
Remember that Google recommends you keep the phone on a flat surface or standing to get optimal performance.
Nonetheless, seeing the features make their way to the Pixel Buds A-Series would have been nice.
Those, with the current price tag of the buds, could have made Google take one more big step in the TWS competition.
Slava is a man of mystery and no-one seems to know exactly where he is at any point in time. When he isn't enjoying writing about all things audio and technical he can be found researching his next project of interest. The man never rests.