Google rolls out a surprise Pixel Buds Pro update

Google added several features to its current flagship earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro 2, this year, such as Adaptive Audio, Gemini integration, and head gestures. Surprisingly, it hasn’t forgotten about the original Pixel Buds either, which are receiving their first firmware update in nearly two years.

Google community manager Stefanie Frederick announced on the company’s support forum that a new Pixel Buds Pro firmware (v5.11) is now rolling out (via 9to5Google). Sadly, it does not bring any new features. Instead, the release focuses on bug fixes and performance improvements. And given Google’s vague announcement, it’s hard to pinpoint what exactly the firmware improves.

If you are still using Google’s original flagship earbuds, the new update should automatically download and install itself when available.

If automatic updates are turned off, a notification will appear on your phone when the v5.11 build is available for download. You can then follow the instructions to download and install the firmware. Alternatively, you can use Google’s companion My Pixel Buds web app to install the update.

Based on Reddit reports, it appears the update is not live yet. It should go live in the next few days, with a wider rollout possibly scheduled after a week or two.

Pixel Buds Pro have aged surprisingly well

The last major Pixel Buds Pro update arrived in October 2023, adding Conversation Detection, Bluetooth Super Wideband support for enhanced call quality, and Hearing Wellness. A couple of months later, the earbuds gained support for enhanced call controls through the Quick Phrases feature. It allows users to answer or reject calls by saying “answer” or “decline.”

Google likely found a security issue that prompted it to release an update for the Pixel Buds Pro. Otherwise, the earbuds are well past their typical update window. Whatever the case might be, it’s good to see the company push an update for its first flagship earbuds after such a long time.

While the Pixel Buds Pro is unlikely to receive any new features, they already support Gemini, which is a big upgrade in itself. This ensures you can use the earbuds to interact with the AI-powered assistant in natural language and enjoy more contextual voice interactions.