Troubleshoot 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. If music is not playing, try tapping once on the earbuds or host device (some apps do not 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, then turn it back on.
  6. Wait for the Pixel Buds to automatically reconnect with your previously connected host device. This can take several seconds. If necessary, change which host device you are connected to by selecting 'Pixel Buds' from that device's Bluetooth menu.
  7. If you are still experiencing audio issues, 'Forget' your Pixel Buds from your device, restart the device you wish to connect with your Pixel Buds and pair your Pixel Buds with the device again.
  8. Earwax or debris can affect charging and audio quality. Clean your Google Pixel Buds, especially if there is any debris around the microphone or speaker openings. To avoid damaging your Pixel Buds, only clean around the microphone holes and speaker vent openings. Do not 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 inserting 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 your ears are dry to help prevent the unwanted noises.

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 are not getting the audio or call quality 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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