Bose has officially announced the successor to its acclaimed 2023 premium headphones, the QuietComfort Ultra. The latest model, known as the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen or QuietComfort Ultra 2, boasts a slightly refreshed design along with several enhancements that elevate the user experience.
While the QuietComfort Ultra 2 may not look drastically different from its predecessor, a closer inspection reveals notable design improvements. One significant change is the Bose logo on the earcups, which is now elegantly inlaid rather than simply printed. Additionally, Bose has chosen a shiny, polished finish for the aluminum yokes. Although this finish is prone to fingerprints, it contributes to a more sophisticated appearance when kept clean.
The earcups continue to be made of durable plastic, while the adjustable headband and removable ear cushions are wrapped in protein leather, also known as synthetic leather. Weighing in at a comfortable 250 grams, the QuietComfort Ultra 2 maintains the lightweight feel of the original model. Customers can choose from an array of colors including Black, Midnight Violet, Driftwood Sand, and White.
In terms of features, the QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones showcase improved ActiveSense technology that enhances noise cancellation capabilities. They now come equipped with advanced on-head detection, allowing the headphones to automatically power on and pair with your device as soon as you put them on. When removed or folded, the headphones seamlessly transition into a low-power standby mode.
Similar to the first generation, these headphones offer a Quiet Mode for complete noise cancellation and an Aware Mode for times when you need to stay aware of your surroundings. Bose has also integrated spatial audio for an immersive experience during both audio and video playback. The new cinema mode delivers a balanced surround sound experience, enhancing dialogue clarity while watching videos or enjoying audiobooks and podcasts.
Bose claims that the bass performance has been improved when listening at higher volumes, making the QuietComfort Ultra 2 an excellent choice for audiophiles. The headphones now support Bluetooth 5.4 for a more stable wireless connection and feature lossless audio over USB-C, while still retaining the option for an audio jack. Along with the headphones, Bose provides a USB-C to USB-C cable, a 3.5mm to 2.5mm audio cable, and a protective hard case.
One of the most notable upgrades in the QuietComfort Ultra 2 is the enhanced battery life, which has increased from 24 hours (or 18 hours with Immersive Audio) in the previous generation to an impressive 30 hours (23 hours with Immersive Audio). Charging time remains at 3 hours, but a quick 15-minute charge can provide up to 2.5 hours of listening time.
Bose is currently accepting pre-orders for the QuietComfort Ultra 2, set for release in October. Interested customers can pre-order these headphones in all four available colors on the Bose website for $449/£449.95, matching the price of the Sony WH-1000XM6. The headphones are also available for pre-order on Amazon in Driftwood Sand and Black.
