Google has announced software upgrades for its Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds 2a earbuds, despite unveiling no new earbud hardware at its Made by Google event. The changes strengthen Gemini voice controls and add convenience features, helping Google keep its existing earbuds competitive alongside newly announced Pixel phones, watches and trackers.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 will gain dynamic active noise cancellation that adapts to small changes in the earbud seal, while both models will let Gemini adjust volume and equaliser settings by voice. They will also work with Pixel Watch sleep detection to pause music and mute notifications, and Live Translate will support more than 70 languages through an earbud tap. Updates arrive in September; the Pro 2 will additionally receive an olive-green colour option, now available to pre-order.