How to Improve the Google Pixel 9 Pro Speaker Sound Quality

The Google Pixel 9 Pro (and all other models in the lineup) are officially five months old today. The flagship was undeniably competitive, now ranking third as the most-bought smartphone in 2024 globally, following Apple and Samsung.

People loved the Pixel 9 series for its advanced hardware and AI features, making it the “most popular Pixel ever.” It’s also smart for Google to release different variants per launch at once, giving users more options. What sold most for us is the 9 Pro variants, particularly the Pixel 9 Pro. For those who prefer a larger version of this, an XL version is also available.

In this article, we wanted to talk about the Google Pixel 9 Pro speaker sound quality and how to improve it. If you have the device for as long as three months or more, you may start to notice degrading sound quality. Don’t fret because you can get it back to its prime with just a few tricks. Dive in.

The Pixel speakers offer great sound quality for a smartphone. It delivers clear and balanced audio with effective software enhancements like Adaptive Sound. While it can’t replace dedicated audio gear, it sets a high bar for everyday media consumption and communication. For the best experience, pairing the device with quality headphones or external speakers is recommended. Additionally, if you’re using a Google Pixel 9 Pro case, make sure the cutouts aren’t causing interference or blockage.

The Pixel 9 Pro has two speakers, with the bottom speaker being louder. It supports spatial audio for some media and Advanced Audio Codec (AAC) for high-definition audio on compatible headphones.

Spatial audio simulates 3D sound, making it feel like audio is coming from different directions around you rather than being limited to stereo (left and right channels). Here’s how it works:

• The Pixel 9 Pro uses software algorithms and supported content (e.g., movies or music mastered for spatial audio) to create this immersive effect.

• When paired with compatible Pixel Buds or other supported headphones, it can even adjust the sound dynamically based on your head movements.

Important Note: Spatial audio isn’t as effective on the phone’s speakers due to physical constraints, but it works better with headphones or external speakers.

Meanwhile, the AAC is a widely used lossy audio codec that delivers high-quality sound at a lower bitrate than older codecs like MP3. Here are the roles it plays in the Pixel 9 Pro:

• AAC ensures clear and balanced sound output, whether you’re playing music, streaming videos, or on a call.

• It’s optimized for Apple devices but works seamlessly with Android too, ensuring compatibility with streaming services like Spotify and YouTube.

• It offers efficient compression for higher audio quality at smaller file sizes.

• It reduces latency, especially when streaming audio over Bluetooth.

Important Note: AAC performance can vary depending on the hardware or software implementation, but the Pixel 9 Pro handles it well due to its high-quality speaker design and software optimization.

If the sound quality of your Pixel 9 Pro seems off occasionally or frequently, you can properly test it by playing a few different songs or videos from different apps. If only some sounds are distorted, the sound files could be broken. If all sounds are distorted, you can follow simple troubleshooting steps that won’t consequently harm your device.

The first trick can be conveniently found in your phone’s settings.

The Sound Amplifier is a built-in feature designed to enhance audio clarity by reducing background noise, amplifying quieter sounds, and fine-tuning frequencies. Here’s how to use it:

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Sound Amplifier.

Turn on the feature and adjust the settings to suit your preferences.

Test the sound to see if there’s an improvement in quality.

Sometimes, uneven volume settings can impact sound clarity. Use the volume buttons on the side of your device or adjust the volume levels in Settings > Sound to find the optimal balance. Avoid setting the volume too high, as it may cause distortion.

The Adaptive Sound feature adjusts audio output based on your surroundings. While useful, it can sometimes interfere with consistent sound quality. Temporarily disable it to regain manual control:

Go to Settings > Sound & Vibration > Adaptive Sound.

Toggle off the feature and test your audio again.

A simple restart can resolve many software glitches that might be affecting your device’s sound quality. Press and hold the power button, then select Restart. Once your phone powers back on, check if the issue persists.

Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in the speaker grills, muffling sound output. Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air to gently clean the speaker openings. Avoid using liquids or sharp objects that could damage the speakers.

If the above tips don’t resolve the issue, you can try these advanced troubleshooting steps to identify and fix the problem.

Safe Mode helps identify whether a third-party app is causing conflicts. To enter Safe Mode:

• Press and hold the power button.

• Tap and hold the Power Off option until Reboot to Safe Mode appears.

• Select it and test your device’s sound.

If the sound improves, an app might be causing the issue. Restart your phone to exit Safe Mode and uninstall recently downloaded apps to identify the culprit.

Network misconfigurations can sometimes affect sound-related features. Resetting your network settings might help:

• Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth.
• Confirm the reset and reconnect to your networks.

Outdated software can lead to performance issues, including sound problems. Check for updates:

• Go to Settings > System > System Update.

• Download and install any available updates.

Keeping your device up to date ensures compatibility and optimal performance.

Sometimes, minor glitches can be resolved by toggling sound settings. For instance:

• Go to Settings > Sound & Vibration.

• Toggle options like Media Volume or Do Not Disturb on and off.

• Test your audio after making adjustments.

If none of the above steps work, a hard reset might resolve persistent issues. Note that this will erase all data on your device, so back up your files first:

• Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
• Confirm the reset and set up your device again.

You should be able to diagnose and resolve any speaker-related issues on your Pixel 9 Pro with these self-fixes.

If you’ve tried all the tips and troubleshooting steps and your Pixel 9 Pro’s sound quality hasn’t improved, it might be time to contact Google Support. Here are some scenarios where professional assistance is recommended.

Hardware Damage 

If your device has been dropped or exposed to water, physical damage might be affecting the speakers.

Persistent Issues 

If software updates and resets don’t resolve the problem, there could be a deeper issue requiring expert attention.

Warranty Claims 

If your Pixel 9 Pro is still under warranty, contact Google Support to explore repair or replacement options.

Unusual Behavour 

If your speakers produce crackling sounds, sudden volume drops, or complete audio failure, reach out to support for diagnostics.

You can contact Google Support through the Settings > Tips & Support section or by visiting the official Google Support website. Provide details about the troubleshooting steps you’ve already performed to streamline the process.

A good speaker is a defining feature for most mobile phone users, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro delivers excellent sound quality for most scenarios. If you’ve encountered issues, following the tips and troubleshooting steps outlined here can help you restore your device’s audio performance. For persistent problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to Google Support, especially if your device is still under warranty.

With the right care and adjustments, you can continue enjoying immersive sound from your Pixel 9 Pro. Remember, not only your speakers need protection and care. Gear up your device with the Thinborne Pixel 9 | 9 Pro | 9 Pro XL | 9 Pro Fold case. These ultra-thin cases are just 0.04 in thin and less than 1 oz light. Enjoy full compatibility with the MagSafe ecosystem in a barely-there minimalist design. Crafted from aerospace-grade 600D aramid fiber!

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