Tech Desk 
Sep 26, 2024
The recent launch of Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 marked a major milestone, with the successful integration of Gemini AI. However, Google is now planning to bring this cutting-edge AI technology to various older Pixel Buds.
Pixel Buds Pro 2’s Gemini AI feature
Google Gemini on Pixel Buds Pro 2 allows users to customise the press-and-hold gesture that triggers Gemini AI and brings up the Gemini Live feature to brainstorm with the AI assistant. However, now Pixel Buds users won’t have to upgrade to Pixel Buds Pro 2.
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Older Pixel Buds to get Google Gemini
Originally, older Pixel Buds, including the Pixel Buds, Pixel Buds A-series, and Pixel Buds Pro earbuds, come with Google Assistant. With Gemini gradually replacing Google Assistant on Android phones, the tech giant announced that Gemini will also be integrated into these Pixel Buds.
With the integration of Google Gemini, these older earbuds will gain access to Gemini LLM and the Gen AI platform. Once switched to Gemini AI, personalised responses on Pixel Buds will require unlocking the paired Android phone first.
Via an email sent to all Pixel Buds owners, Google revealed that Gemini and Google Assistant will co-exist and it will be maintaining the functionality of both on Pixel Buds.
“The Hey Google & Voice Match setting on your connected Android phone or tablet will now control whether you can use “Hey Google” on your Assistant-enabled headphones. To use “Hey Google” and receive hands-free help on your headphones with your voice, turn on “Hey Google” from Assistant settings on your connected Android phone,” Google stated.
Notably, some of the older Pixel Buds could remain limited to Google Assistant as the tech giant indicated the new update for the older generation of Pixel Buds is limited to regions where Gemini is currently available.
Google is yet to confirm a timeframe regarding when it will release this update to bring Gemini AI to older Pixel Buds.
