Google has officially introduced the Pixel Buds 2a at its latest Made by Google event, expanding the A-Series lineup of earbuds. Designed as a more affordable yet premium audio solution, the Pixel Buds 2a pack Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Google’s in-house Tensor A1 chip, and several AI-driven features that elevate the listening experience. Priced at ₹12,999 in India, the earbuds aim to deliver flagship-grade performance at a mid-range price point.

Compact and Comfortable Design

Inspired by the design philosophy of the Pixel Buds Pro 2, the Pixel Buds 2a are created for all-day comfort. Google says the earbuds were fine-tuned using data from over 45 million ear scans, ensuring an ergonomic fit for different ear shapes.

The earbuds are IP54-rated, making them resistant to sweat and splashes, while the charging case is IPX4-rated, offering protection from light rain and everyday use. At just 4.7 grams per earbud, they are lightweight, making them suitable for extended wear during workouts, commutes, or workdays.

Advanced Audio and Connectivity

One of the biggest upgrades to the Pixel Buds 2a is the inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with Silent Seal™ 1.5, a technology that adapts to the user’s ear shape and environment for better noise blocking. For those who want situational awareness, Transparency Mode can be enabled with a simple tap.

Key audio features include:

11mm dynamic drivers for immersive sound

Stereo Spatial Audio for cinematic listening

5-band equalizer for personalized tuning

Wind-blocking mesh and Google AI-powered call enhancements for crystal-clear voice calls

Connectivity is powered by Bluetooth 5.4 with Super Wideband support, ensuring low latency, stronger connections, and improved voice quality.

Powered by Tensor A1 Chip

Each earbud is powered by Google’s new Tensor A1 chip, enabling real-time AI-based processing. This not only enhances ANC performance and adaptive sound but also enables seamless integration with Google Gemini, the company’s latest AI assistant.

Users can interact hands-free with Gemini for emails, navigation, reminders, and other tasks, making the Pixel Buds 2a more than just an audio accessory.

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel Buds 2a provide:

Up to 7 hours playback (ANC on)

Up to 20 hours with the case (ANC on)

Up to 10 hours playback (ANC off)

Up to 27 hours with the case (ANC off)

A 5-minute quick charge delivers 1 hour of playback, making it extremely convenient for users on the go. Charging is done via USB-C, and the case weighs just 47.6 grams with the earbuds inside.

Smart Features and Pixel Ecosystem

The Pixel Buds 2a integrate tightly with the Pixel ecosystem, offering Pixel-Perfect Pairing for seamless connection with Pixel smartphones. Other smart features include:

Multipoint pairing to connect with two devices simultaneously

Find My Device support for locating lost earbuds, even inside the case

Tap controls for music, calls, ANC, and Gemini activation

In-ear detection sensors for auto-play/pause

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Design

Google has emphasized sustainability with the Pixel Buds 2a. The earbuds and case are built with recycled materials, including:

41% recycled components in earbuds

100% recycled rare earth elements in magnets

100% recycled cobalt in batteries

Plastic-free packaging

Additionally, the charging case has a replaceable battery, making it more future-proof and environmentally friendly.

Specifications

Driver: 11mm dynamic driver

ANC: Silent Seal™ 1.5 with Transparency Mode

Processor: Google Tensor A1

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4, Super Wideband support

Durability: Earbuds (IP54), Case (IPX4)

Battery Life: Up to 27 hours (ANC off), 20 hours (ANC on)

Weight: Earbuds 4.7g each, Case 47.6g

Colors: Hazel, Iris

Price: ₹12,999 (India), $129 (US)

Pricing and Availability

The Google Pixel Buds 2a are priced at ₹12,999 in India and $129 in the US (approx. ₹11,225). Available in two colors — Hazel and Iris — the earbuds will hit the shelves in India and global markets starting October 2025.

Final Thoughts

With ANC, AI-powered audio features, Tensor A1 performance, and eco-friendly design, the Pixel Buds 2a bring premium functionality to Google’s mid-range audio lineup. Positioned as a value-for-money alternative to the Pixel Buds Pro 2, they are likely to appeal to users who want high-quality sound, AI convenience, and sustainability at a more affordable price.

At ₹12,999, the Pixel Buds 2a directly compete with the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE, OnePlus Buds Pro 3, and Nothing Ear (2), making the TWS market in India even more exciting.