Last week, I found myself on a leisurely walk when I experienced a revelation with Google’s latest wireless earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2. As I lost myself in the enchanting tones of an obscure Estonian folk track, I realized I couldn’t even feel the earbuds nestled comfortably in my ears. Their fit was not only secure but so natural that I forgot I was wearing them—an essential benchmark for any pair of earbuds.

This remarkable comfort is just one aspect of what the Pixel Buds Pro 2 bring to the table. Google has prominently featured the Tensor A1 chipset in these earbuds, which significantly enhances the audio processing capabilities. Three standout features that users will undoubtedly appreciate are the improved Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), battery life, and audio quality.

The ANC has been notably upgraded from previous models, creating a cocoon of silence that rivals many over-ear headphones. Users can switch between full ANC, an ambient mode that lets outside sounds in, and a completely transparent experience, allowing for total control over their audio environment. This flexibility transforms everyday listening into a tailored sonic experience.

Additionally, the Tensor A1 introduces what Google dubs a “highway lane” for music, allowing for a direct path to our ears while still benefiting from advanced audio processing. Switching between audio modes yields almost no noticeable change in sound quality, ensuring a consistently crisp listening experience.

Battery life is another win for the Pixel Buds Pro 2, boasting an impressive 8 hours of playback time with ANC on, plus an extra 30 hours available thanks to the charging case. With these figures, you can confidently enjoy long stretches of your favorite tunes without constantly seeking a charging source.

However, one aspect that leaves room for improvement is the lack of support for advanced audio codecs like aptX Adaptive or LDAC, which are known for their high bitrate and superior sound. Although the basic AAC and SBC codecs are present and Bluetooth has been upgraded to version 5.4, audiophiles might find themselves yearning for more capability in this department.

Device switching has become nearly seamless thanks to Google’s ecosystem, allowing users to hop between smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks almost effortlessly. Once engaged with a new device, the earbuds automatically switch to minimize lag, providing a fluid user experience.

Interestingly, the Buds Pro 2 also incorporate generative AI features, complementing the Google Assistant functionalities present in previous models. However, users may want to approach the Gemini AI component with caution. Its conversational mode sounds promising, but tests reveal a tendency for inaccuracies, undermining its reliability. For now, the generative AI still seems unpolished and may not replace the effectiveness of previous Google Assistant commands.

In summary, Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 represent a significant step forward in wireless audio technology. They excel with a lightweight design, enhanced fit, longer battery life, and superior ANC, making them a strong contender for best-in-class wireless earbuds. While the integration of GPT-powered generative AI feels like an added complexity rather than a meaningful enhancement, the core audio performance and comfort make them worth considering.

If you’re on the hunt for high-quality wireless earbuds that take comfort to the next level, look no further than the Pixel Buds Pro 2. They might just be the audio upgrade you didn’t know you needed!