Google updates ‘Hey Google’ activation for Pixel Buds and Assistant devices
Top 3 Key Points:
- The “Hey Google” activation for Pixel Buds now depends on the settings of your connected Android phone or tablet.
- You can no longer enable “Hey Google” on your Pixel Buds if it’s off on your phone.
- Google has renamed the Assistant setting on Pixel Buds Pro 2 to “Digital assistant,” with upcoming updates expected.
Google has recently adjusted how you activate the “Hey Google” voice command on Pixel Buds and other Assistant-enabled headphones. Previously, users could independently enable the “Hey Google” hotword on their Pixel Buds, even if it was disabled on their Android phones. However, a new update changes this setup.
Now, the ability to use the “Hey Google” command on your Pixel Buds depends on the settings of your connected Android phone or tablet. Specifically, if the hotword is turned off on your phone, it will also be disabled on your headphones. The updated system combines the settings for both devices under one toggle: “Hey Google & Voice Match” in your Google Assistant settings.
To continue using the hands-free “Hey Google” feature on your Pixel Buds, you’ll need to enable it on your Android device through the Assistant settings. This change streamlines the configuration process, ensuring your phone and headphones use the same voice command settings.
In addition, Google is preparing to roll out new features to the Pixel Buds Pro 2, including updates powered by its AI model, Gemini. As part of this preparation, Google has renamed the “Google Assistant” option in the Pixel Buds settings to “Digital Assistant.” More updates are expected shortly, making the Pixel Buds experience even more integrated with Google’s evolving Assistant technology.
This streamlined setup helps unify how users interact with Google Assistant across devices, improving overall ease of use.