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Bose QuietComfort (2nd Gen) leak teases fresh design, smarter controls, and better sound
Jul 20, 2026 — 11:39 AM ET
- Bose introduced the original QuietComfort Headphones three years ago, and has yet to come through with a refresh.
- That could change next month, with a new report detailing plans for the QuietComfort (2nd Gen).
- Changes are expected to be significant, including a new design, new controls, and a number of audio upgrades.
There are plenty of great Bose headphones and earbuds, but some of those models are feeling a little fresher than others. While we got the new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) last year, the same old original Bose QuietComfort Headphones have been kicking around since 2023. If you’ve been wondering when these might be due an upgrade of their own, you’re in luck, as today a new report outlines plans for the QuietComfort (2nd Gen) — and they could be here sooner than you’d think.
According to Dealabs, not only is a QuietComfort refresh on the way, but Bose could launch them in just a few weeks. These QC 2G headphones will supposedly make some significant changes compared to their predecessor, moving to a new design, implementing new controls, and delivering some worthwhile improvements to sound quality.
Specifically, we hear that Bose could be going with a new design that incorporates more padding, including a new pill-like shape for the ear pads and a wider headband. We can also expect a new slate of color options, and while Black should return, that could be joined by White Smoke, Rosewood Mauve, Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint, and Hazelnut Taupe. Sadly, we’ve yet to get a look at all those shades.
Bose TrueSpatial tech, lossless digital input over USB-C, and ActiveSense adaptive transparency promise some meaningful tech upgrades, and new listening modes like Immersion and Cinema Mode could give listeners more control over the experience. All those improvements should also result in higher call quality when using the QC 2G.
Battery life could be roughly in line with the first generation, offering about 24 hours playback with ANC engaged, cut down to 18 hours with TrueSpatial audio active.
Interest sufficiently piqued? Bose will supposedly introduce the QuietComfort (2nd Gen) on August 7, opening pre-orders at the same time. Pricing will reportedly be $359 (£299.95, €349.95), with a formal release date of August 13.
The original QuietComfort Headphones had some good ideas, but we definitely walked away from those feeling like there was ample room for improvements. It sounds like we’ll be able to find out whether or not Bose learned its lesson very, very soon.
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