Pixel Buds 2a tipped for fresh colour update

Industry watchers tracking product listings, software strings and retail references say the new finishes suggest Google is preparing a modest refresh of the Pixel Buds 2a rather than a full hardware overhaul. The earbuds, which sit as the entry point in Google’s audio range, are widely expected to be showcased alongside the next mid-range smartphone in the Pixel portfolio, reinforcing the company’s pattern of bundling ecosystem announcements around handset launches.

The Pixel Buds 2a were introduced as a lower-cost alternative to the Pixel Buds Pro, focusing on reliable wireless performance, integration with Android devices and Google Assistant support while omitting features such as active noise cancellation. Their competitive pricing has helped them gain traction in markets where consumers are increasingly cautious about discretionary tech spending but still seek branded accessories that work seamlessly with their phones.

A shift towards new colours reflects a broader strategy seen across consumer electronics, where visual differentiation is used to sustain interest between major hardware cycles. Fog, typically described as a muted grey-blue tone, and Berry, a deeper pinkish-red shade, would expand beyond the more restrained colourways associated with earlier Pixel Buds releases. Such additions often target younger buyers and first-time users, groups that tend to favour personalisation over incremental technical gains.

People familiar with Google’s hardware roadmap say the colour refresh aligns with preparations for the Pixel 10a, the next iteration in the A-series that traditionally emphasises value and long-term software support. Accessory updates timed with handset launches allow Google to present a cohesive design language across devices, encouraging buyers to stay within the Pixel ecosystem.

While no formal specifications have been confirmed for the updated Pixel Buds 2a, expectations remain that the core hardware will mirror the existing model. The earbuds are known for offering balanced sound tuning, stable Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free access to Google Assistant features such as message reading and navigation prompts. Battery life has been positioned as adequate for daily use rather than class-leading, a compromise that helps keep costs down.

Analysts note that Google’s audio strategy has become more segmented, with the Pixel Buds Pro catering to users willing to pay a premium for advanced features, and the A-series focusing on affordability and integration. Introducing new colours without altering internals allows Google to refresh the product’s shelf presence without disrupting manufacturing or supply chains, an approach increasingly common as hardware makers seek efficiency amid volatile component markets.

The move also comes as competition intensifies in the budget and mid-range true wireless segment. Brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi and Nothing have all pushed aggressively into this space, often using bold design choices to stand out. For Google, colour updates serve as a low-risk method of maintaining visibility while relying on software integration as its primary differentiator.

Retail patterns suggest that Google may offer the new colours at the same price point as existing variants, avoiding any repositioning that could confuse consumers. Past Pixel accessory updates have typically retained pricing to preserve value perception, particularly in cost-sensitive regions.