Google is rolling out Pixel Buds firmware release_6.144. The update adds five features, including Live Translate on the buds themselves and Gemini voice control over settings. There is also a mute gesture for calls and automatic pausing when you fall asleep. One detail is worth checking before you get excited. Google’s own support-forum post lists these features for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and the Pixel Buds 2a. The original 2022 Pixel Buds Pro is not named anywhere in that feature list.
What is in Pixel Buds release_6.144
Four of the five additions are listed for both the Pro 2 and the 2a. The fifth is restricted to the newer flagship buds.
- Dynamic Active Noise Cancellation — Pixel Buds Pro 2 only. Google says it will “automatically adjust audio or noise cancellation based on your ear seal,” compensating when a bud shifts in your ear.
- Enhanced Live Translate — touch a bud to start translating through the Google Translate app, without taking your phone out.
- Gemini voice commands — change ANC modes, EQ or touch controls by asking out loud instead of opening the app.
- Tap to Mute — mute and unmute your microphone mid-call with a tap. Requires a paired Pixel phone.
- Auto-pause while sleeping — uses Pixel Watch sleep sensing to pause media, switch off touch gestures and silence notifications once you drift off.
The Gemini controls are the second step in a short run of changes. Last month’s update already let Gemini change your EQ and ANC by voice. This release extends that to touch-control settings as well.
Check which features your buds actually get
This is where owners should be careful. Much of the coverage of this release groups the whole lineup together under the Pixel Buds Pro name. Google’s post as published attaches the four non-ANC features to the Pro 2 and the 2a. It does not say the 2022 Pixel Buds Pro is ruled out, either. It simply does not mention that model in the feature list. That is not the same thing as a confirmed exclusion.
If you own the first-generation Pro, the only reliable answer is the one on your own phone. Check the firmware screen rather than trusting a headline. Assume nothing until the features show up in your app.
Two of the five features also come with hardware strings attached. Tap to Mute needs a paired Pixel phone. The sleep pausing needs a Pixel Watch to detect that you have dropped off. Use Pixel Buds with a non-Pixel Android phone and part of this feature set stays out of reach.
How to check for the update
Open the Pixel Buds companion app on your paired phone. Go to More settings, then Firmware update, and look for release_6.144. Firmware pushes like this one arrive in stages, so a version number that has not moved today is normal.
Sources: Google, 9to5Google
