Troubleshoot Google Pixel Buds audio issues

If you experience issues with the audio coming from your Google Pixel Buds or your left or right earbud isn't working:

Pixel Buds won't play audio
  1. Tap once on the earbuds or host device (some apps don't work with touch controls on the earbud).
  2. Confirm that your Pixel Buds and charging case are charged.
  3. Confirm that Bluetooth® is on and that your Pixel Buds are within range and paired with your device.
  4. Make sure that you have updated to the latest firmware version.
  5. On your host device, turn Bluetooth off, wait for a few seconds, then turn it back on.
  6. Pixel Buds should automatically reconnect with your device. You can manually change your connected device by selecting Pixel Buds from that device's Bluetooth menu.
  7. 'Forget' your Pixel Buds from your device. Restart the device and pair your Pixel Buds with the device again.
  8. Clean your Google Pixel Buds of any debris around the microphone or speaker openings. To avoid damaging your Pixel Buds, only clean around the microphone holes and speaker vent openings. Don't insert anything in these areas.
Pixel Buds have low volume

If you experience low volume on both earbuds, adjusting these settings may solve it.

Pixel Buds Pro only: Check that Conversation Detection isn't causing audio to lower or pause.
Pixel phones: You may have developer options configured within your Pixel phone settings and the 'Disable absolute volume' turned on. To turn this off, go into your phone settings, tap System and then Developer options and then under 'Networking', turn 'Disable absolute volume' off.
Non-Pixel Androids: Try one of the fixes below.

  • Enable 'Media Volume Sync' by going to your device's settings and then Connections and then Bluetooth and then Advanced and then turn 'Media volume sync' on.
  • Go to your device's settings and then Network and then Bluetooth and then Select your Pixel Buds settings and then Edit the name of the device and then Rename it 'ABS-DO-ENABLE' and then Tap and hold the device name and then Disconnect and tap on the device name to reconnect.
Pixel Buds are humming or beeping

If the buds produce unwanted noises (humming or beeping) when you insert the buds into your ear, this may be caused by sweat, liquids or build up in the snout of the earbud. Clean your Google Pixel Buds and ensure that your ears are dry to help prevent the unwanted noises.

Audio is cutting in and out or skips

If one or both Pixel Buds skip, stutter or have choppy audio that lasts up to six seconds in some instances, do the following:

  1. Make sure that you have updated to the latest firmware version.
  2. Reset the earbuds by placing the earbuds in the charging case for one minute, then removing them.
  3. Reset your Google Pixel Buds.
  4. Check that the issue isn't being caused by a spotty Internet connection.
  5. Keep the earbuds near your source device and minimise obstructions between them like walls and floors.

Pixel Buds audio isn't clear during calls

If you are in a noisy environment, Transparency mode on the Google Pixel Buds Pro series may interfere with your mic output quality since it uses one of the microphones to let you hear your surroundings. Try changing ANC modes to improve your call quality.

Pixel Buds has low bass

Pixel Buds have an equaliser setting that will give your music a little more oomph. Learn more about the settings for Pixel Buds. Use the correct eartip size and make sure that your earbuds are worn correctly to improve bass.
Still experiencing issues?
  1. If you are still experiencing issues, try resetting your Pixel Buds.
  2. Confirm that the proper eartip size is selected for optimal audio quality. Try all three sizes to find the most comfortable tip that provides the best audio performance. A tight seal gives you better sound and mic performance. If you aren't getting the audio or call quality that you expect, try bigger eartips. Using clean eartips ensures better audio quality.
  3. Placement of a phone, particularly in outdoor scenarios, may affect Bluetooth connection. You can improve the Bluetooth connection by changing the placement of the phone where the phone is held.
Google, Pixel Buds and related logos and marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logo are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

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