Pixel Buds Pro 2 firmware updates bring sleep detection and more

What happened

Android Police reports that its October 2026 update adds automatic sleep detection to the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds 2a, as long as you're wearing a Pixel Watch.

Android Police states that when the Pixel Watch decides you've dozed off, it tells the earbuds to stop the audio and lock down interactions.

Android Police explains that to get the feature, you should open the Pixel Buds app, go to More settings, and check the Firmware update screen for the latest version.

Android Police notes that you can open Connected Devices, tap the settings gear next to your Pixel Buds, and turn off Touch controls.

Android Police reports that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 also gained Dynamic Active Noise Cancellation in the 6.144 update.

Android Police mentions that the Pixel Buds Pro 2 use Google's Tensor A1 audio chip to adjust noise reduction based on how well the earbud is sealed in your ear.

Why it matters

• Impact

  The sleep detection and auto-pause feature integrates with the Pixel Watch to manage playback and power, potentially extending battery life and reducing wakeups.

What we know

Android Police reports that to change noise control behavior, you go to Connected Devices and select your Pixel Buds.

Android Police notes that if you want the buds to last through a full night, you should turn off noise control for the best chance.

Android Police reports that five minutes in the case gets the Pixel Buds Pro 2 up to 1.5 hours of listening with ANC off.