Google says that with Bluetooth Super Wideband, its Pixel Buds Pro are better for calls on Pixel 8 phones. Here's how that does (and doesn't) work.
Google has promised some cool updates for its Pixel Buds Pro noise-canceling wireless earbuds, including conversation detection, lower latency for gaming, and a way to keep an eye on safe listening levels. It also said that if you pair the Pixel Buds Pro to Google’s new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, you’ll get better call quality thanks to Bluetooth Super Wideband. In theory, Google’s right.
Related But there’s more to audio quality than just bandwidth. When a device uses hi-res codecs for music, it’s trying to preserve a high level of resolution that’s already present in the source content. If you play hi-res lossless FLAC music on Amazon Music or Tidal, Bluetooth codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive will preserve more of that detail than other codecs. However, if you play highly compressed, lossy MP3 tracks, hi-res codecs can’t magically make them sound better.
All of these factors affect the starting point of voice quality, long before the benefits of Super Wideband kick in. The best wireless earbuds for call quality include Jabra Elite 7 Pro, AirPods Pro Gen 2, and Status Audio Between 3ANC — three models that perform very well under a variety of conditions, even without the help of Bluetooth Super Wideband.
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