Real-time language translation no longer exclusive to Google Pixel Buds
The Google Pixel Buds, introduced last year alongside the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, were the search giant's response to the Apple AirPods. Unlike AirPods, the Pixel Buds have a speaker for the left ear and one for the right ear that are connected to each other by a cable. And if we might digress for a moment, just remember not to cut that cord, no matter what a Google employee tells you.
The one major feature that was exclusive to Pixel Buds was the accessory's ability to use Google Translate to convert real-time speech from a foreign language into your primary language. Note how we used the past tense in the previous sentence. That's because an update made yesterday to the Pixel Bud's Google support page changes the wording from "Google Translate on Google Pixel Buds is only available on Pixel phones," to "Google Translate is available on all Assistant-optimized headphones and Android phones." For example, the USB-C headphones that come in the box with the Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL can translate in real-time.
There are 40 languages that can be translated in real-time using Google Translate, and we can see why Google would want to have this feature offered on all Android phones and headsets that support Google Assistant. Now we will see if the Pixel Buds can survive at a price of $159 without this exclusive.
Google support page reveals end of Pixel Buds' exclusivity on real-time language translation
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