Google just launched the Pixel Buds 2A at $129.99, and they represent everything right and wrong with today's headphone market. The earbuds deliver solid noise cancellation, impressive comfort, and nearly all the features of the pricier Pixel Buds Pro 2 - but only if you're locked into Google's ecosystem. For iPhone users, they're just basic Bluetooth headphones.
Google just dropped its latest shot across the audio wars, and the Pixel Buds 2A tell a story that's bigger than just another pair of earbuds. At $129.99, these represent the current state of consumer tech in miniature - incredible capability trapped behind ecosystem walls.
The hardware story here is genuinely impressive. Google has finally ironed out the connectivity issues that plagued earlier Pixel Buds, with The Verge's David Pierce reporting just "one surprising audio cutout" during extensive testing. The star upgrade is active noise cancellation, powered by the same Tensor A1 chip found in the premium Pixel Buds Pro 2.
But here's where things get interesting. The ANC performs well against consistent background noise, though it struggles with sudden loud sounds - taking "a beat too long" to respond to sirens or screeches. More telling is what Google isn't bringing over from the Pro 2: features like Loud Noise Protection and automatic volume adjustment based on conversation detection remain exclusive to the higher-end model.
The comfort factor is where Google might have Apple beat. Pierce notes the "Mentos-shaped" design feels significantly better than "Apple's candy cane AirPods," with the Buds 2A being "light and small enough that they don't even really feel like they're in my ears." The included four eartip sizes and Google's "eartip seal" checker help ensure proper fit.
Sound quality lands squarely in "fine" territory - crisp and pleasant without being exceptional. The bass in Lil Wayne's "A Milli" comes through "strong and clean if not exactly thunderous," while complex tracks occasionally feel "a little jumbled." It's competent audio that won't wow audiophiles but satisfies most listeners.
The ecosystem divide becomes stark when you look at feature availability. Android users get the full experience: EQ controls, hands-free Gemini access, fast pairing, multipoint connectivity, and customizable touch controls. iPhone users? They get basic Bluetooth headphones. No app, no customization, no enhanced features.
This isn't unique to Google - AirPods similarly reserve their best tricks for iOS. But it highlights how the audio market has stratified along phone ecosystem lines. The days of truly universal headphones are fading as companies push deeper integration with their platforms.
