Made by Google Podcast Hear What Matters: The Pixel Buds 2a Experience | Made by Google Podcast S8E5
Oct 1, 2025
In this conversation, Vanessa Pau, a Product Manager for Pixel Buds and a biomedical engineer, reveals the thought process behind the Pixel Buds 2a. She discusses the impressive upgrades in Active Noise Cancellation, boasting a 1.5x improvement thanks to the Tensor A1 chip. Vanessa shares insights on enhancing battery life and how user feedback shaped sound quality decisions. The episode also highlights innovative repairability features, customizable fit options, and AI-powered enhancements for clearer calls and outdoor use.
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Customer-Driven Feature Priorities
- Users of the first-gen Pixel Buds A series primarily wanted active noise cancellation, better battery life, and improved sound quality.
- Pixel Buds 2a prioritizes those high-impact features rather than nonessential premium extras.
Tensor A1 Boosts ANC Power
- Tensor A1 enables stronger, more efficient real-time audio processing for noise cancellation.
- Pixel Buds 2a deliver 1.5x stronger ANC than the first-gen Pixel Buds Pro through this chip.
Extend Battery With Efficient Design
- Use power-efficient chips and case design to extend wearable battery life.
- Pixel Buds 2a achieve 7 hours with ANC on and 10 hours with ANC off by combining Tensor A1 and a more capable case.