With the rollout of Android 12, Google introduced Material You, a fresh aesthetic that empowers users to customize their devices, making them feel more personal. Yet, one notable exception to this design overhaul was the Google Pixel Buds app, which remained untouched by the new aesthetic guidelines. Recent developments indicate that this is changing, as the Pixel Buds app is now receiving an update that aligns it more closely with the Material You design language found in Android 13 and beyond.
Update Details
The update, identified as version 1.0.680489030, introduces themed icons to the Pixel Buds app, allowing it to adopt the color scheme selected by the user. This enhancement marks a significant step for the Pixel Buds app, which plays a crucial role within the Pixel ecosystem. Users can easily enable or disable these themed icons through the “personalization” settings on their Android devices.
However, the Pixel Buds app is not the only application awaiting a design refresh. Users have pointed out several other apps, including Play Games, Opinion Rewards, and Google Translate, that have yet to receive the same aesthetic treatment from Google.
Rolling Out and Future Enhancements
The update is currently being rolled out across Android devices. If you do not see the changes immediately, patience may be required, as updates can take time to reach all users. Furthermore, Google appears to be actively working on additional features for the Pixel Buds app, despite its relatively minimalist design.
In September, reports emerged indicating that Google is planning to reintroduce the “Noise Control” panel in Android 15. This feature will enable users to seamlessly switch between Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and transparency mode on their Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Buds Pro. Additionally, users will likely have access to a smaller Noise Control panel via the Buds app by tapping the “Spatial Audio” option.
The introduction of themed icons is a welcome change for the Pixel Buds app, allowing users to personalize their device screens further. This small yet significant update enhances the overall user experience, making it feel more tailored and unique.