Google rolls out Gemini AI on Pixel Buds, enhancing voice assistant features across all models including Pixel Buds A-series and Pro.
Google has announced that it is introducing its Gemini AI to all Pixel Buds. In an email to users, Google stated that Gemini will soon be available on Pixel Buds, given it’s set as the default digital assistant on the user’s Android phone.
Google has confirmed that all Google Pixel Buds will get access to the Gemini LLM as part of an update to how AI assistants work on Bluetooth earbuds.
In a mass email sent to Pixel Buds owners, Google has detailed the upcoming change to how Gemini and the Assistant will work in coming days. While the “Hey Google” activation phrase remains, it is no longer a separate setting. In future, it will simply control the default AI assistant on the Android phone or tablet.
At present, previous-generation Pixel Buds can only access the Google Assistant when using voice controls, or on-device earbud touch controls. This update will make it easier to access Gemini with Pixel Buds, Pixel Buds A-series, or Pixel Buds Pro. The recently released Pixel Buds Pro 2 goes a step further with Gemini Live integration as part of an extensive feature set.
However, Google has stated that “some Pixel Buds features may work differently” with Gemini than they did with Assistant, most likely because the AI tool is still missing features from Google Assistant.
Google also shares in the email that to first use Gemini with Pixel Buds, the phone needs to be unlocked and connected while wearing them. One can talk to Gemini and get personalized responses. However, once the user disconnects the Pixel Buds and puts them back, the user needs to unlock your phone again in order to use it again.
How to Use Gemini on Pixel Buds
- To use Gemini with Pixel Buds, first ensure that Gemini is set as the assistant on the smartphone, replacing Google Assistant.
- The Android phone must be unlocked and connected to your Pixel Buds while wearing them.
- Once set up, one can access Gemini on Pixel Buds using the same activation process as for Google Assistant.
Notably, unlocking the phone is only required during the initial setup. Once paired, users don’t need to unlock the phone every time to access Gemini. However, if the user removes the Buds or disconnects them, personalized responses would not be received while the phone is locked. This can be adjusted via the “Only Require One Unlock” option in the Digital Assistant settings for Pixel Buds.
How to turn your digital assistant off on your Pixel Buds
- Connect your Pixel Buds. If this is your first time using your Pixel Buds, follow the on-screen setup instructions.
- Open your device settings. Tap Connected devices, then go to Pixel Buds settings, select Digital assistant, then Turn off assistant.
Note: If you already use Google Assistant with your Pixel Buds, when you switch to Gemini as your default digital assistant, you may get a notification to use Gemini with your Pixel Buds.
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Availability
The rollout has already started, beginning with the new Pixel Buds Pro 2. However, the change is limited to countries where Gemini is currently available. This means that some regions will still only have access to the Assistant as of now.
Google only states that Gemini on Pixel Buds is “coming soon” with no details on if this will require a firmware update to the existing earbuds.
