Google Pixel Buds Get New Transcription, Attention Alerts, and Share Detection

Google is adding a number of new features to its Pixel Buds today – and also fixing cut / disconnection issues that some early adopters have experienced. The latest firmware update is expected to reduce “dropouts during calls” and provide “better automatic recovery when one or both earbuds lose connection”. A new mode of transcription is designed to translate long speeches directly into your ears, which is ideal if you are listening to a lecture or a speech where only one person speaks in a language you cannot understand. Pixel Buds have always supported a translation feature, but this transcription mode is designed for one-way translation instead of two-way conversations, and it’s a more discreet way to translate using Buds. It will initially be available for French, German, Italian and Spanish to English translation.

Along with the new mode of transcription, Google is also adding other audio options. A new bass boost mode enhances the bass you hear from Pixel Buds. This pairs well with a better share detection feature, which now allows Pixel Buds users to share a single earbud with someone and have individual volume control on each earbud.

Photo by Becca Farsace / The Verge

Google is also launching a new experimental feature of Pixel Buds today. Attention Alerts are designed to alert Pixel Buds users to important events happening around them while listening to music. If a baby is crying nearby or an emergency vehicle passes by with its siren on, the Pixel Buds will automatically turn down the volume temporarily so you can hear what’s going on around you.

If you frequently misplace your Pixel Buds, Google is also improving the ability to find them. While you can already ring the headphones to find them, you can also see their last known location on a map. The Google Assistant is also getting improvements on the Pixel Buds. You can now ask “How long is the battery life of my headphones?” and the assistant will respond. You can also enable or disable the Pixel Buds’ touch controls through the Google Assistant.

All of these new features are rolling out to Google Pixel Buds today.