Finally, the interesting spatial audio starts rolling out (alongside head tracking) on the Google Pixel Buds Pro via the January security patch. Spatial audio gained much popularity, thanks to how the brand emphasizes its benefits. However, rolling out to the Google Pixel Buds Pro officially took a little while – well, it’s here at last.
January security patch brings the Pixel Buds Pro spatial audio
Version 4.30 is the first update since 3.14 in October (which included a complete 5-band EQ, left/right balancing adjustments, and bug fixes). It goes live today and “will be accessible on all Pixel Buds Pro throughout the following week.” Going to Pixel Buds Pro settings after the update will display a new Spatial Audio menu that consolidates that primary option (which went live with the January security patch for the Pixel 6+) and “Head tracking.”
Google mentions how “audio changes as you turn your head to sound more realistic” and gives a demo video in which you can “hear how audio changes.” Google suggests that you “keep your phone steady or set it on a solid surface or stand” when watching Dolby Audio or 5.1+ material. YouTube, Google TV, Disney+, HBO Max, and Netflix are among the streaming services that are supported.
Check that “Spatial Audio” is enabled at the bottom of the Bluetooth options. It is compatible with the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 7, and 7 Pro. “Spatial audio is not supported on Pixel Buds A-Series or Pixel A-Series phones,” according to Google.
In mid-February, Google released the Pixel Buds app version 1.0.506492162. The earphones are the first to be updated. When the latest firmware has been downloaded, your phone will reboot. It is then followed by a “Checking the update…” procedure that lasts longer than a simple reconnection. When the earphones are inserted, your case will be updated.
