— Bose has unveiled the QuietComfort Ultra 2, a refined successor to the 2023 QuietComfort Ultra that delivers longer battery life, a new Cinema spatial mode for video and spoken-word clarity, and support for lossless audio over USB-C ahead of an October release.
Key Takeaways
- Successor to the 2023 QuietComfort Ultra with a refined look and inlaid Bose logo.
- Battery life increased to 30 hours (23 hours with Immersive/Spatial audio); 15-minute quick charge yields ~2.5 hours.
- New Cinema mode offers spatial surround and clearer dialogue for video, podcasts and audiobooks.
- Supports lossless audio via USB-C while retaining a wired jack; includes USB-C cable, 3.5mm-to-2.5mm cable and hard case.
- Improved ActiveSense noise cancellation, on-head detection and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
- Available in Black, Midnight Violet, Driftwood Sand and White; pre-orders open at $449 / £449.95 with shipment planned in October.
Verified Facts
The QuietComfort Ultra 2 keeps the original’s lightweight profile at 250 grams and updates several materials and finishes: the Bose logo is now inlaid on the earcups and the aluminum yokes have a polished finish. Ear cushions and the adjustable headband remain covered in protein (synthetic) leather.
ActiveSense, Bose’s adaptive noise-cancellation system, has been tuned for stronger suppression. The headphones still offer selectable Quiet Mode for maximum isolation and Aware Mode to let ambient sound in. On-head detection has been enhanced so the pair automatically powers on and pairs when worn, and shifts into a low-power standby when removed or folded.
Audio features include spatial processing for both music and video, with a dedicated Cinema mode intended to balance surround effects and center dialogue. Bose reports improved bass response at higher listening levels. Bluetooth 5.4 is supported, and wired listening is preserved via a standard audio jack.
For wired lossless listening, Bose now allows lossless audio over the USB-C port. The package includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, a 3.5mm-to-2.5mm audio cable and a protective hard case. Rated battery life is 30 hours under normal use and 23 hours with Immersive/Spatial audio enabled; full charge takes about three hours.
Context & Impact
The QuietComfort Ultra 2 competes directly with other premium noise-cancelling headphones such as Sony’s WH-1000XM6, matching its $449 price point. By adding USB-C lossless support and a Cinema mode, Bose addresses two growing user demands: higher-fidelity wired playback and improved spatial experiences for streaming video and spoken-word content.
Longer battery life and faster on-head pairing improve daily convenience for commuters and frequent travelers. The retention of a wired jack and bundled cables may appeal to listeners who switch between mobile devices, dedicated players, or in-flight systems.
From a market perspective, the updates are iterative rather than revolutionary: materials and finish are upgraded, ANC and detection are refined, and software-driven spatial features are emphasized. Those seeking a clear jump in core audio architecture should look for future model reviews and measurements.
Official Statements
“The QuietComfort Ultra 2 brings a range of refinements — from improved cancellation to richer spatial audio — while adding lossless USB‑C listening,”
Bose (product announcement)
Unconfirmed
- Long-term battery longevity under daily real-world use with Immersive/Spatial audio enabled (manufacturer rating is 23 hours).
- How Cinema mode compares to competing spatial implementations across different streaming apps and device platforms.
Bottom Line
Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra 2 focuses on practical upgrades: more battery life, improved ANC and detection, spatial enhancements for video, and USB‑C lossless support while keeping a familiar, lightweight design. Pre-orders are open now; broad assessment of soundstage, noise cancellation and long-term battery performance will depend on independent reviews after the October launch.