My colleague recently called for better Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the next Pixel Buds Pro, while I simply want a future charging case to support lanyards.
9to5Google has a rebooted newsletter that highlights the biggest Google stories with added commentary and other tidbits. Sign up to get it early in your inbox, or continue reading 9to5Google Log Out below:
Such a loop can be used to connect to belt loops (via a clip), all sorts of bags (backpacks, purses, totes, etc.), or even be worn around your neck. I’ve recently found that any of those attachments are superior to fishing around pants or other cavernous pockets for the headphones. The speed and ease of access are just so convenient once you get acquainted.
I’ve been previewing that life with a Pixel Buds Pro case from Spigen. This particular one is Made for Google with access to the pairing button, which is not always the case on non-certified accessories. Spigen also makes a rugged version that is thicker, but I enjoy the transparent plastic model a great deal more.
A built-in loop would let you hold the charging case without anything encumbering the sleek pebble-esque object that looks like EVE from WALL-E. Google truly hit it out of the park with this aspect of the Pixel Buds design. It’s beautiful and just a delight to hold. I haven’t been able to appreciate that with the Spigen accessory, but my current prioritization is quick access to the buds.
My next feature request would be to bump the case from IPX2 to IPX4, like the earbuds, for more water resistance. I have definitely taken the case out in the pouring rain to get out the Pixel Buds and worried about possible damage.
More broadly, I do wonder what Google’s next headphones will be. The Pixel Buds Pro launched in mid-2022 and just got a handful of new software features, including Assistant Quick Phrases, Conversation Detection, Hearing Wellness, Bluetooth Super Wideband, Clear Calling, and reduced gaming latency on the Pixel 8 series. It’s clear that the current hardware still lets Google add more capabilities, while the color lineup was just refreshed. That said, there’s a rather steep $80 discount this holiday season that you usually associate with inventory clearing.
The full price of Pixel Buds Pro is $199, while the A-Series comes in at $99. A base model at $149 could make sense with more smarts than the A-Series while being smaller than the Pro. I have no issue with the fit of the Pixel Buds Pro, but I recently went back to the A-Series and was surprised at how light they are. There’s definitely a market for something that’s physically smaller, and that could be the defining characteristic of a third pair of earbuds in the lineup.
From 9to5Google
These are 9to5Google’s favorite phones of 2023 – what’s yours? [Poll]
These are the best Android phones on a budget in 2023
Hands-on: Here’s what Night Sight can do with Video Boost on the Pixel 8 Pro [Video]
Comment: I’ll miss Google Podcasts for its simplicity
[Fixed] Google Messages is not sharing location data with third parties despite Android 14 warning
Google Messages rolling out new contacts page with Material You carousel
This is where you go to set up Pixel Watch Unlock right now
Pixel Launcher search tests surfacing Quick Settings Tiles
Google Lens simplifies and consolidates into three filters
‘Nothing Phone 2a’ likely coming at MWC with MediaTek chip, redesign with fewer lights
What (else) is happening
Google launches Pixel Diagnostic App, repair manuals in English
YouTube will start showing fewer, but longer ads on TVs
Chrome’s 3rd-party cookie deprecation is called ‘Tracking Protection,’ testing starts January
Gemini now live for developers with free access via Google AI Studio
YouTube Music rolling out Now Playing gradient redesign [U]
Google Keep will become an Android 14 notes app with lock screen & stylus support
Gmail package tracking can now bump emails to the top of your inbox
Top comment by Basim Khan
I don't really understand the use of a lanyard loop in devices, like I would 100 percent rather have my devices in my pocket I feel like it looks worse just hanging outside.
Google extends Stadia Controller Bluetooth conversion tool for another year
Google Play Store redesign breaks search bar for some users
From the rest of 9to5
9to5Mac: Apple invites press to relive their own spatial videos on Vision Pro: ‘Almost brought me to tears’
Electrek: Chevy Blazer EV first drive – is it worth its $56k base price?
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments