The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are among the better ANC earbuds we've tested. However, it appears accessing noise cancellation on Google's audio accessories has become a bit challenging for some users.
Users report expanded volume slider menu causes issues
The ANC button is missing completely in this case. | Image by akpe
To access ANC features on the Pixel Buds, users can either use gesture controls, the Pixel Buds app, or the expanded volume slider menu. Following the March 2026 update, using the latter option has started to feel like hitting a wall.
In the g/GooglePixel subreddit, one user noticed the ANC/Transparency toggle has either disappeared completely in the expanded volume slider menu or started behaving weirdly.
Bugs are becoming more and more annoying for some users. | Image by Devoutly1224
The problem was observed by many other users in the subreddit, many of whom share that rebooting their device, re-pairing the earbuds, and clearing the cache have yielded no results.
Updating has been suggested, but would it help? | Image by Reddit
Reportedly, the issue was later fixed with the April update, only to reappear a few days later. A Google Pixel rep appears to have jumped into one of the discussions, encouraging users to update their Pixel Buds or reset them. In case these steps don't work, Google's rep advises users to contact the support team.
Some may have been hoping that the April update would fix these issues, but it looks like they've only gotten worse. Reportedly, the latest update causes widespread sluggishness of various generations of Google Pixel phones.
Many users have reported the slowdowns are especially noticeable while scrolling, and some explain even typing feels delayed. Furthermore, one Pixel 7 Pro owner shared an even stranger issue, saying their phone no longer scrolls in the right direction.
Users with older-gen flagships are 'enjoying' bugs as well. | Image by Reddit
Thus far, the r/GooglePixel community seems to have found no solution, suggesting it might indeed be the last two updates that have caused the system-wide failures.
A ghastly tendency
Google's past two updates are indeed causing difficulties for many Google Pixel phone users. But Google isn't alone in this. Not long ago, Samsung Galaxy phone and smartwatch owners also voiced their frustrations over sudden battery drain following a major security patch.
And yet, both Google and Samsung are two of the biggest titans in the Android ecosystem. If these brands can't consistently deliver stable software for devices that cost over $1,000 (and their accessories), then who can?
It's not just an Android problem, either. iPhone 17 users have been facing issues as well. And here I am, as a user, wondering: what exactly are we paying for? Premium hardware that eventually becomes unreliable due to buggy updates?
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Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.
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