Google talks about sound design on Pixel phones in latest Made by Google podcast

In the latest episode of the Made by Google Podcast (S5 E2), Google invites listeners into the world of sound and haptic design on Pixel phones. The company’s sound design lead – Conor O’Sullivan – reveals how the carefully crafted audio cues and vibrations aim to create a multi-sensory experience that aligns with the Pixel’s overall design philosophy.

They note that while there’s a lot of information that can be displayed on our smartphone cues, they don’t want to overburden users with just visual elements. That’s where meticulously crafted audio cues come into play.

Google’s audio designers strive to create sounds that are “simple,” “human,” and “playful.” The intention is to find ways to support the visual elements of the interface subtly with sound and haptic feedback. This holistic approach is meant to reduce the overwhelming amount of visual information users process daily.

The “Gems” collection – featuring new ringtones, notifications, and alarms – marks a significant milestone in Google’s sound design. Conor notes that these new sounds on the Pixel 8 series were inspired by Google’s push for AI on its phones. Conor’s team member, Harrison, explained the sounds were generated in collaboration with Google MusicFX, a generative AI model that transforms text prompts into snippets of music.

For example, the “Amber Beats” ringtone began with a text description and a 30-second audio clip generated by the AI. Google’s audio designer then took inspiration from a small portion of this clip, manipulating and shaping it into a final ringtone that felt original and aligned with their vision.

Google’s creative process extends beyond cutting-edge technology. The Pixel Camera’s shutter sound, for instance, was inspired by the simple sound of scissors clicking, which was the foundation for the familiar sound that users hear today. The design team also considers real-world environments. Ringtones need to be audible in both quiet and noisy places, and all sounds must work within the constraints of the phone’s hardware.

Google is even revisiting classic notification sounds. In the podcast, they delve into the process of transitioning from the well-known “Big Adventure” ringtone to the more modern “Your New Adventure,” or the update from “Popcorn” to “Eureka.” Naming these sounds is a collaborative process, with audio designers providing descriptions that inspire the UX content strategy team to find the perfect fit.

Google sees its exploration of generative AI as a way to unlock new possibilities in sound design. The company believes that tools like MusicFX could push the boundaries of creativity and expression in audio.

By sharing these insights into sound design on Pixel phones, Google underscores its commitment to thoughtful design that extends beyond visuals. With a focus on simplicity, a human touch, and playful innovation, the company is crafting a unique and immersive sonic experience for Pixel users. Last year, the company also highlighted its efforts with haptics on Pixel products.