GOOGLE PIXEL BUDS A-Series
ROLE: WEARABLES INdustrial design manager @GOOGLE
Pixel Buds A-Series
We took the best parts of Pixel Buds (released 2020) and designed them to deliver the same rich sound and Google helpfulness for just $99 (a reduction of $70). In my role as Wearables ID manager I oversaw the design and execution, directed design photography and worked closely with our functional partners through to launch.
an exercise in less
We maintained our earbuds' most important and unique touchpoints, such as their ease of use and flush-to-ear design, while designing for cost. We reengineered the product finishes, simplified the contacts and the case hinge in order to make it more affordable while delivering a premium experience.
Maintaining the icon
The A-Series buds still have the same flush-to-ear design in new Clearly White and Dark Olive colors, which help the buds stand out and allow for that bold circular appearance in the ear.
riverstone
The case leverages the same smooth pebble-like design with simplified hinge design and charging contact layout that still gives that satisfying click.
ship in a bottle
We managed to fit 12mm speaker driver and 5hours of listening time in the tiny housing that sits comfortably flush to the ear.
Light and dark neutrals
Designed to fit in and stand out from the crowd, we developed two unique color ways, ‘Dark Olive’ and ‘Clearly White’ that contrast matte and gloss and subtle shift in shades. After all, life is not black and white.
uncompromised performance
We worked closely with our cross functional engineers (during a pandemic!) to ensure industry leading audio and antenna performance.
