Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Now Feature USB-C Audio

▼ Summary
– Bose has launched the second-generation QuietComfort Ultra headphones, adding lossless audio support via USB-C while retaining the 2.5mm analog jack.
– Priced at $449, they are available for preorder and will ship in four colors starting October 2nd, 2025.
– Battery life reaches up to 30 hours with ANC, extendable to 45 hours by disabling ANC, and drops to 23 hours with Immersive Audio enabled.
– New features include improved ANC with Aware Mode, Cinema Mode for enhanced audio staging, and better bass and noise reduction.
– The headphones support Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint connectivity, and include on-head detection for automatic power and connection management.
Bose has unveiled the second generation of its QuietComfort Ultra wireless headphones, bringing a significant upgrade that audiophiles have been eagerly awaiting. The standout feature is the addition of USB-C audio support, enabling listeners to enjoy lossless, high-fidelity sound through a wired connection. For those who prefer the classic approach, the trusted 2.5-millimeter analog jack remains intact, offering flexibility whether you’re plugged in or enjoying wireless freedom.
Priced at $449, these refreshed headphones are available for preorder directly from Bose and are set to begin shipping on October 2nd, 2025. Shoppers can choose from four sophisticated colorways: black, smoke, driftwood sand, and midnight violet. White will also be available at launch, broadening the style options for users who value both performance and aesthetics.
Battery performance sees a welcome boost, now offering up to 30 hours of playback with active noise cancellation engaged. An enhanced Aware Mode intelligently adapts to your surroundings, ramping up noise blocking when sudden loud interruptions occur, like a roaring bus or construction noise. If you activate the head-tracking Immersive Audio feature, expect around 23 hours of use. For even longer sessions, disabling ANC via the Bose app extends battery life to an impressive 45 hours.
A new Cinema Mode promises a richer auditory experience, spatializing sound to emulate a theater-like environment. This setting not only widens the soundstage but also clarifies dialogue, making it ideal for movie buffs, podcast listeners, and audiobook enthusiasts. Bass response has been refined for greater impact at higher volumes, and background hiss from the ANC system is noticeably reduced, ensuring that subtle details in your music or content aren’t lost.
Convenience is another area where Bose has made strides. The on-head detection system now automatically powers up the headphones and connects to your paired device as soon as you wear them. When you take them off, simply laying them flat or stowing them in the included carrying case triggers a low-power standby mode that preserves battery for months.
Connectivity upgrades include support for Bluetooth 5.4, alongside multipoint pairing and compatibility with SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm AptX Adaptive codecs. Android users will appreciate seamless setup with Google Fast Pair, and Spotify Tap integration allows for quick music control directly from the headphones.
(Source: The Verge)