Bose has introduced the second generation of its QuietComfort Ultra wireless headphones, bringing key improvements nearly two years after the original model was launched. The updated version keeps the same name but now includes the long-requested ability to play lossless audio through a USB-C cable, alongside the familiar 2.5-millimetre analogue headphone jack for those who prefer a wired option.
The QuietComfort Ultra are available for preorder from Bose’s online store at US$449, a slight increase from the previous model’s US$429. General availability is scheduled to begin on 2 October. Customers will have a choice of four colours: black, white smoke, driftwood sand, and midnight violet.
Longer battery life and smarter noise control
One of the standout updates is improved battery performance. With active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled, the headphones can last up to 30 hours on a single charge. When the head-tracking Immersive Audio feature is switched on, that figure drops to 23 hours. However, Bose has introduced a new option to disable ANC entirely through the mobile app, extending playback time to as much as 45 hours.
The updated Aware Mode has also been refined. It can now automatically adjust ANC to filter out sudden, loud environmental noises such as traffic or construction sounds. This feature is designed to keep users aware of their surroundings while maintaining comfort and safety.
Enhanced sound and cinema mode
Bose has also placed a strong focus on audio enhancements. The company claims the new QuietComfort Ultra delivers deeper bass at higher volumes without distortion, while reducing background noise produced by the ANC system in quieter settings. This, according to Bose, prevents subtle details in music or speech from being lost.
A newly introduced Cinema Mode adds a “movie-like experience” by spatialising and balancing background sound effects, creating a broader soundstage and making dialogue clearer. Bose suggests this mode can also enhance podcasts and audiobooks by improving speech clarity.
Smarter connectivity and features
The second-generation QuietComfort Ultra now include Bluetooth 5.4 for improved wireless stability and efficiency. As with the previous model, the headphones still support multipoint connectivity, allowing them to connect to two devices at once, and are compatible with SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm AptX Adaptive codecs.
Android users benefit from Google Fast Pair for quick and seamless connections, while Spotify Tap integration provides instant access to music with a single press.
On-head detection has also been upgraded. The headphones automatically power on and connect to a paired device when placed on the user’s head. Once removed, they enter a low-power standby mode when laid flat or folded into their carrying case, helping preserve battery life for months at a time.
With these updates, Bose aims to strengthen the QuietComfort Ultra’s position in the premium headphone market, offering a mix of longer battery life, more advanced features, and expanded listening options for both casual users and audiophiles.
