Software
Google's Pixel Buds are getting a new transcription mode, attention alerts, and sharing detection
Google is introducing a range of new features to its Pixel Buds today — and also resolving the cut-off / disconnect problems faced by some early buyers. The newest software update will eliminate "Cut-out instances during calls" and "Better auto-recovery when one or both earbuds lose contact." A new transcribe mode is built to translate long speech directly into your ears, which is perfect if you're listening to a lecture or speech when a single person speaks a language you don't understand.
Pixel Buds has always provided a translation feature, but this transcribe mode is optimized for one-way translation instead of back and forth conversations, so it's a more discreet way to translate using Buds. It will initially be available for translation into English into French , German, Italian and Spanish.
In addition to the latest transcribe mode, Google is also introducing a few more audio options. A new bass enhancement mode will improve the bass you hear from the Pixel Buds. This pairs well with a better detection sharing feature, which now allows Pixel Buds users to share a single earbud with someone and to have individual volume control over each earbud.
Google is also releasing a new experimental Pixel Bud feature today. Attention Warnings are designed to warn Pixel Buds users to important things occurring around them while listening to music. If a child cries nearby or an emergency vehicle passes by with its siren on, the Pixel Buds will automatically lower the volume temporarily so that you can hear what's going on around you.
If you're someone who often misplaces your Pixel Buds, Google is also improving your ability to find them. While you can already ring earbuds to find them, you can now also see their last known location on the map. Google Assistant is also making some improvements to the Pixel Buds. Now you can ask, "How much battery life have I left on my earbuds? "And the Assistant will reply. You can also enable or disable Pixel Buds touch controls via Google Assistant.
All of these new features are being rolled out to Google's Pixel Buds today.
