How to Set Up Pixel Buds

This article explains how to set up Google Pixel Buds on any smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The instructions apply to Android, iOS, Windows, and Macs.

How to Set Up Pixel Buds

Your Google Pixel Buds set will come with a pair of Pixel Buds, a charging/pairing case, and a charging cable. Before you pair your Buds to a device, make sure they are ready to set up:

1. Remove the Pixel Buds from the packaging.

2. Place Pixel Buds in the included charging case.

3. If the LED light flashes green the Pixel Buds are fully charged. A flashing red LED means the Pixel Buds need a charge.

4. Make sure your Pixel Buds have charged for at least ten minutes before the first pairing.

How to Pair Pixel Buds to an Android Device

You can pair your Pixel Buds with an Android using the Pixel Buds app.

1. Download the Pixel Buds app from the Google Play Store.

2. Turn on Bluetooth if it's not already enabled. Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the Bluetooth icon to toggle it on or off.

3. Open the Pixel Buds app. The app will instruct you to press and hold the pairing button until the indicator light flashes.

4. The phone will detect the Google Pixel Buds and you’ll see a headphone symbol at the top of your screen. Your device is now connected.

   You can use your Pixel Buds for translating with the Google Assistant app. You can also use Pixel Buds as a hands-free earpiece while driving.

How to Connect Pixel Buds to an iPhone or iPad

You don't need an app to connect Pixel Buds to your iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the Pixel Buds case with the Pixel Buds inside of the case fully charged, then place the case next to your iPhone.

2. Hold the button on the Pixel Buds case until the pairing LED starts to blink. This indicates that the pairing process has started.

3. On your iPhone, open Settings, then tap Bluetooth and turn on the Bluetooth toggle switch.

4. The Pixel Buds will show in the list of devices. Tap the Pixel Buds and they will now be connected to your iPhone or iPad.

How to Connect Pixel Buds to a Computer

You can pair Pixel Buds to a Windows PC or Mac computer using Bluetooth.

1. Open your device's Bluetooth settings. In Windows, select the Bluetooth icon in the taskbar, or go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices. On a Mac, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth.

2. Turn on Bluetooth and search for nearby devices.

3. Press and hold the pairing button on the front of the Pixel Buds case. The LED light should begin flashing.

4. Select Pair or Connect and your Pixel Buds will be connected to the computer.

How Do I Control My Pixel Buds?

You can control music and functionality on the Pixel Buds by tapping them: 

• Tap on either earbud once to play or pause music.
• To skip to the next track, tap twice on either earbud.
• Swipe forward on either earbud to raise the volume.
• Swipe backward on either earbud to lower the volume.
• Hold the earbuds for three seconds to activate Google Assistant (not available on all devices).