Pixel Buds Pro definitely get the spatial sound you want

Google’s high-end Pixel Buds Pro earbuds are getting a big update this week that brings one of the most long-awaited features. Spatial audio has arrived!

When first announced, the Pixel Buds Pro were sold as spatial audio-ready, however that won’t be coming until sometime in the future. Once Google pushed Spatial Audio support to its Pixel phones in January, we figured the Pixel Buds Pro wouldn’t be far behind. And here we are.

Google He says To expect Spatial Audio support in firmware version 4.30 for Buds Pro that should arrive as an automatic update. You can check this through the Pixel Buds apps in Settings > More settings and then Firmware update. The rollout has begun and will reach all Pixel Buds Pro units over the next week.

Once installed and active without a supported app, you’ll get richer immersive sound that should have a lot more depth. You get head tracking that moves as you do to keep the sound as if you were sitting in a theater. I played with Spatial Audio on the latest OnePlus Buds Pro 2 and it’s absolutely amazing. The sound is really on another level, but it may not be ideal for all situations or most music. It sure looks very cool when you watch the video.

Currently, supported apps that can send you content in 5.1+ surround sound will work, and those include Netflix, YouTube, HBO Max, and others.

For now, Google said Spatial Audio in the Pixel Buds Pro works on the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro. Pixel Buds A-Series and A-Series Pixel phones are not supported. What about other Android phones? Good question.