Pixel Buds Web App: Now Compatible with Mac and Windows

The Pixel Buds web app, originally exclusive to Chromebooks, now supports Mac and Windows, offering features like noise control and firmware updates, enhancing accessibility for a broader audience.
SummaryGoogle’s Pixel Buds web app, initially launched for Chromebooks, is now available for Mac and Windows users. The app supports macOS 14 Sonoma or newer and Windows 11 or newer. Users can pair their Pixel Buds with their computers, access various features such as Active Noise Control, Conversation Detection, Multipoint Connectivity, and more through the web app. Additional settings like Mono Audio and Volume EQ are accessible via a gear icon. The app also allows firmware updates without an Android device, expanding Pixel Buds’ accessibility. Further insights include comparisons and future enhancements for Pixel Buds models.

Expanding Pixel Buds Compatibility

Introduction to Pixel Buds Web App

Last year, Google introduced a web app for Pixel Buds, initially exclusive to Chromebooks. The good news is that this web app is now accessible for both Mac and Windows users.

Supported Operating Systems

The web app, accessible at mypixelbuds.google.com, now operates on macOS 14 Sonoma or newer and Windows 11 or newer. Initially, it was only available on ChromeOS starting from version 127+ (previously, it was version 117 a year ago).

Pairing and Using Pixel Buds Web App

To utilize the web app, ensure your Pixel Buds are paired with your computer. Visit the website and choose the option to save “Pixel Buds” as a Progressive Web App (PWA).

Features and Controls

Once the app is set up, you can monitor the battery status of both the case and each bud. For Pixel Buds Pro users, the following settings can be adjusted:

– Active Noise Control: Options include Off, Noise Cancellation, and Transparency.

– Conversation Detection

– Multipoint Connectivity

– Touch Controls

– Equalizer

Additional Settings

Access the “More Settings” gear icon at the top to find:

– Mono Audio

– Volume EQ

– Volume Balance

– In-Ear Detection

– Device Serial Numbers

Firmware Updates

The web app also features a Firmware section, allowing users to update their Google headphones without needing an Android device. This expansion to Mac and Windows platforms effectively broadens the accessibility of Pixel Buds to a wider audience.

Further Reading on Pixel Buds

– Exploring Google’s best design: The Pixel Buds case

– The Pixel Buds app appearing in Pixel Launcher after updates

– Pixel Buds Pro vs. Pixel Buds Pro 2: Are there sufficient upgrades? [Video]

– How Google plans to use Gemini to enhance notifications on Pixel Buds Pro 2

Acknowledgments

Thanks to Mudit for the contributions.