If you’ve been keeping an ear out for the latest and greatest in wireless audio technology, then you’ll want to sit down for this one. The much-anticipated Auracast feature has officially landed on Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2, opening up a world of Bluetooth audio broadcasts that could transform how you experience sound.
But before you get too carried away, let’s dive into the details because not every Pixel phone will be able to take advantage of this exciting new feature. According to Android expert Mishaal Rahman (via Android Authority), the elite club of Pixel devices ready to support Auracast includes the following:
- Google Pixel 8
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Google Pixel 9
- Google Pixel 9 Pro
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Sounds pretty exclusive, right? Unfortunately, this means that models like the Pixel 8a, Pixel 7 series, and even the original Pixel Fold will have to sit this one out. The secret sauce behind this selective feature rollout lies in the device make files, specifically the presence of the RELEASE_PIXEL_BROADCAST_ENABLED build flag, which indicates whether a device is ready to rock with Auracast.
So, what’s the big deal about Auracast, you ask? Imagine this: You’re at a concert or a sports event, and instead of battling for a good view while straining to hear the sound, you simply tune into a Bluetooth audio broadcast using your Pixel Buds Pro 2. It’s like having front-row seats without the hefty ticket price. This feature is all about enhancing the communal experience of sound, allowing multiple listeners to connect to a single audio source simultaneously.
In addition, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are reportedly prepped and primed for Android 15’s Bluetooth audio sharing feature, making them more versatile than ever. With these enhancements, your audio experience could become as seamless as that contagious Pixel camera snap you’ve come to love.
In a nutshell, if you’re the proud owner of a Pixel 8 or one of the latest Pixel 9 devices, you’re in for a treat with Auracast and all the cool features that come with it. For those rocking older models, it might be time to consider an upgrade if you’re itching to join the Auracast party. You may also want to check out compatible devices from other brands such as Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Z Flip 5 or Xiaomi’s latest releases, among them the Mix Flip, Xiaomi 14 and 14T family of devices.
Hillary Keverenge
2291 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
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