In 2020, when Google released its second-generation Pixel Buds — its first true wireless earbuds, not to be confused with 2017-released Pixel Buds that were tethered together by a braided cord — each earbud was designed with integrated ear wing. It was a little silicone extension (or “arm”) that helped the earbuds lock into your ears and, thus, fit more securely.
Since then, Google has divided its Pixel Buds into two different lines. There’s the Pixel Buds Pro, which have high-end features like active noise-cancellation, transparency mode and a case that supports wireless charging. And there’s the Pixel Buds A-Series, which lack most high-end features but cost just $99.
While Google’s affordable Pixel Buds A-Series earbuds still have an ear wing design, the 2022-released Pixel Buds Pro abandoned it in favor of a more traditional “rounded” earbud design — which, personally, doesn’t fit nearly as well in my ears.
As Google’s next big hardware event looms nearer, however, leaks surrounding its next-generation wireless earbuds are slowly surfacing. And according to Android Headlines, the second-generation Pixel Buds Pro will have an updated design with an ear wing. Albeit, they could look quite different.
Bringing back the ear wing
According to the leaks, the next-generation Pixel Buds Pro will be Google’s first noise-canceling wireless earbuds with an ear wing attachment. However, the ear wing won’t be exactly like that of the current A-Series. Instead, it’ll be shorter and less protrusive.
If the leaked images are accurate — which you can check out on Android Headlines — the ear wing will be significantly smaller. In fact, it’ll look kind of similar to the ear wing attachment of Master & Dynamic’s MW07 wireless earbuds from several years ago. Bose’s current flagship noise-canceling wireless earbuds, the QuietComfort Ultra, also have a small “bump” that looks similar.
