The new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen enhance call quality with AI voice filters, adaptive microphones, and improved background noise control.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen
Bose has long been the go-to brand for travellers who prioritise comfort, sound quality and noise cancellation, especially when it comes to over-ear headphones.
For years, models like the QuietComfort 45 and Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 have dominated airport lounges and business-class cabins.
However, when it comes to earbuds, the competition has been far more intense, with Apple, Sony, and B&O all vying for space in carry-on bags.
Features Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen
Now, Bose is pushing back with the new QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen, a fresh update that aims to strengthen their position in the travel earbud market.
These second-generation earbuds carry over the core design from the original model but add smarter internals and a few highly requested upgrades.
According to Bose, the standout addition is a new AI-powered noise suppression system designed to improve voice clarity during calls. This system works in conjunction with the earbuds’ eight built-in microphones, dynamic mixing, and adaptive filters. Bose says that it reduces background distractions, such as wind or ambient chatter, even when only one earbud is in use.
The system utilises dynamic microphone mixing, where the earbuds automatically switch between microphones in real time to find the clearest signal, along with adaptive filters that react to changing background noise.
Bose also claims this tech is adapted from its hearing aid developments to help your voice stay front and centre in loud environments.
Battery life remains at up to 6 hours, although Bose specifies that Immersive Audio, its proprietary spatial audio mode, reduces this to 4 hours per charge. The charging case now includes three full top-ups and features wireless charging. Quick charge is also supported, delivering 2 hours of listening in just 20 minutes.
Immersive Audio simulates a front-facing soundstage for a more natural listening experience, even from stereo sources.
Connectivity has also seen an upgrade. The new model supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Snapdragon Sound, which together offer improved streaming quality, stronger connections and lower latency, particularly for Android users.
The Bose Music app remains the control hub, enabling users to adjust ANC levels, fine-tune EQ settings, and personalise gesture functions.
Other refinements include a new touch control toggle, which allows users to turn off gesture inputs entirely, and an internal earwax guard to prevent mesh blockages.
Specifications Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen
| Features | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Earbuds: 12 x 20 x 24 mm Case: 167 x 59 x 27 mm |
| Weight | Earbuds: 7.7g each Case: 61g |
| Colour Options | Black White Smoke Deep Plum |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours 4 hours with Immersive Audio Case provides 3 full charges |
| Features | Immersive Audio Custom EQ via app Snapdragon Sound Touch control toggle Earwax guard |
| Noise Cancellation | Adjustable ANC Aware Mode AI-powered noise suppression |
| Microphones | 8 microphones Dynamic mic mixing Adaptive filters |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.3 Bose Music App |
| Charging | Wireless charging case USB-C 20 minutes = 2 hours playback |
| In the Box | QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen 3 pairs of eartips (S, M, L) 3 pairs of stability bands (1, 2, 3) Wireless charging case USB-A to C cable Safety sheet |
| Website | bose.com |
Price & Availability Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen are now available for £299 in Black and White Smoke, as well as a new Deep Plum colourway. They’re on sale directly from bose.co.uk.
A release date for the US is still to be confirmed.
It seems almost impossible to believe that Bose can deliver only 6 hours of play even with that absurdly massive case. How can it be that they can’t do better than that when every other manufacturer can, often by multiples?
I agree, it’s a woefully low playback time for buds this size. They’ve likely prioritised audio performance and thermal efficiency internally over the battery performance. Sadly!