Google Pixel 7 series will support higher quality Bluetooth LE Audio
Last month, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (Bluetooth SIG) announced that it has completed the full set of specifications that define the next generation of Bluetooth Low Energy Audio (LE Audio). In the new specification, wireless audio performance was improved, support for hearing aids was added, and Auracast broadcast audio was introduced.
According to 9to5Google, recent code changes in the Android Open Source Code Project (AOSP) reveal that the Google Pixel 7 series of smartphones will support Bluetooth low-energy audio. When a Google employee asked if the relevant XML file for the Bluetooth Low Energy audio codec settings was actually used, another Google employee directly provided a link to add a Bluetooth Low Energy audio setting to the Pixel 7 series.
Google calls the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in 2022 the p22 and the Pixel 7a in 2023 as the p23. Bluetooth low-energy audio uses the new LC3 codec, which requires less than half the bit rate compared to SBC, delivering better audio quality and improving device battery life.
The introduction of Auracast broadcast audio will also enhance the wireless audio experience, bringing the ability to share audio. Auracast Broadcast Audio can broadcast audio to an unlimited number of nearby Bluetooth receivers, and users can share it with friends or family and listen to music together using Auracast Broadcast Audio-enabled headphones. Another use of this function is to listen to the broadcast from the public address system in public places, such as train stations or airports, to be the first to know important information and reminders.
The Pixel 7 series will be equipped with the second-generation Tensor chip. The Pixel 7 released this year will provide three colors of Obsidian, Snow, and Lemongrass, while the Pixel 7 Pro will be available in three colors of Obsidian, Snow, and Hazel. Google is expected to officially release the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in the fourth quarter of this year, with pricing likely to be similar to the Pixel 6 series.
