If you’ve been following my coverage of the Pixel 10 launch, you know Google came out swinging this year. But while the headlines are dominated by the new phones and the Pixel Watch 4, there is a quiet contender for “best release of the year” sitting right in the audio department.
After four long years since the original A-Series debuted, Google has finally given us a true successor: the Pixel Buds 2a.
I’ve spent some time digging into the specs and initial reception, and if you are a Pixel user who didn’t want to shell out $229 for the Pro 2s, this might be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. Here is everything you need to know about the new budget kings of the Pixel ecosystem.
At a Glance: What’s New?
- Price: $129
- Release Date: October 9, 2025
- Key Upgrade: Active Noise Cancellation (Finally!)
- Colors: Hazel, Iris, Porcelain, Peony
- Chipset: Tensor A1 (Same as the Pro 2)
The Big Sell: ANC for $129
The original Pixel Buds A-Series were beloved for their comfort and price, but in 2025, launching earbuds without Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a non-starter. Google listened.
The Pixel Buds 2a feature Silent Seal 1.5. While it isn’t the cutting-edge “Silent Seal 2.0” found in the more expensive Pro 2, it is a massive leap forward for the A-line. It uses the new Tensor A1 chip to process audio 90 times faster than the speed of sound to cancel out background noise. For commuters or students, this is the feature that makes these buds an instant recommendation.
Gemini in Your Ear
Google is betting the farm on AI this year, and the Buds 2a are no exception. Because they run on that Tensor A1 chip, they support full Gemini integration.
You can now use hands-free “Hey Google” to ask Gemini to draft messages, check your flight status, or brainstorm ideas while walking your dog—no phone required. It’s a level of smart assistant integration that third-party buds just can’t match on Android.
Design & Fit: The “Twist” Returns
Visually, the 2a looks like a hybrid. They have ditched the old “wingtip” that some people found uncomfortable on the original A-Series and adopted the sleeker, rounder shape of the Pixel Buds Pro 2. However, they retained a twist-to-adjust stabilizer mechanism to ensure they don’t fall out during a run.
They are also IP54 rated for dust and water resistance, making them gym-safe.
The Compromises: What Do You Lose?
To hit that $129 price point (which is $100 cheaper than the Pros), Google had to cut a few corners. Here is what you miss out on compared to the Pixel Buds Pro 2:
- No Wireless Charging: The case is USB-C only.
- No Swipe Volume Controls: You can tap for media controls, but you can’t swipe up/down on the earbud to change volume. You’ll need to reach for your phone or ask Assistant.
- Battery Life: You get about 7 hours of listening time with ANC on (20 hours total with the case). The case is physically smaller than the Pro case, which means a smaller battery.
- Spatial Audio: You miss out on the head-tracking spatial audio features.
One Surprise Feature: Repairability?
In a shocking (and welcome) move, reports indicate the charging case for the Pixel Buds 2a has a user-replaceable battery. This is huge for longevity; usually, when the case battery dies, TWS earbuds become e-waste. This small change could make the 2a the most eco-friendly choice in the lineup.
The Verdict
The Pixel Buds 2a aren’t trying to beat the Sony WF-1000XM5s of the world. They are trying to be the perfect companion for the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro. By bringing ANC and the Tensor A1 chip down to the $129 price point, Google has made the “Pro” model a hard sell for anyone but the most hardcore audiophiles.
Should you upgrade? If you are still rocking the 2021 Pixel Buds A-Series, absolutely. The ANC alone is worth the price of admission.