Bose reveals new QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds with AI noise cancellation and wireless charging

Bose has officially unveiled the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen), the successor to its flagship noise canceling earbuds. The new model builds on the original’s foundation while introducing several targeted improvements that address many of the complaints we had with the original, though not all.

What’s new

AI-Powered Enhancements: The biggest upgrades center around the latest trend in tech: artificial intelligence. Bose has implemented an updated AI algorithm that promises to make noise cancelation adjustments smoother when filtering sudden environmental sounds like passing trains or sirens. This should help prevent your audio content from being drowned out during automatic adjustments, creating what Bose calls “a more refined noise cancelation experience.”

For phone calls, the earbuds also now feature an AI-powered noise suppression system that promises to improve call quality when combined with the earbuds’ eight microphones, dynamic mixing, and adaptive filters. Leveraging audio augmentation technology originally developed for hearing aids, the system is said to better isolate the speaker’s voice while reducing background distractions like wind and office chatter.

Wireless Charging: The charging case now supports Qi wireless charging out of the box, eliminating the need for cables when using compatible wireless chargers. Simply lay the back of the case on any compatible wireless charger and you’re good to go.

Design Improvements: The ear tips now feature embedded wax guards designed to keep your ears and the ear tips of your earbuds clean so you can hear your music without any blockage. Additionally, users can now disable the capacitive touch controls entirely through the Bose app, addressing complaints about accidental activations when adjusting earbuds or brushing your hair behind your ears.

What’s the same

Pricing and Positioning: Bose has maintained the $299 USD price point (CAD $379 in Canada), keeping these earbuds in the premium tier despite market pressure from more affordable alternatives.

Case Size and Design: The charging case remains relatively chunky at 2.35″ x 2.60″ x 1.06″ in the same clamshell shape. While functional, it’s noticeably bulkier than competitors.

Battery Life and Performance: Battery life remains consistent at up to six hours per charge (four hours with Immersive Audio enabled), with the case providing three additional charges. A 20-minute quick charge still delivers up to two hours of playback time. The earbuds maintain their IPX4 water—and sweat-resistant rating.

Sound Profile and App: No significant changes appear to have been made to the sound tuning or frequency response, which previously emphasized bass frequencies more than some listeners preferred. Of course, we will test them in our lab to be sure. We expect these earbuds to utilize the new Bose QC Earbuds app, which has a five-band custom EQ and some notable features over the original Bose app, which only had a three-band custom EQ.

Connectivity: The earbuds continue to support Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity, SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codecs, plus Google Fast Pair for Android users.

The Verdict

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) represent a solid iterative update that addresses two key user complaints—call quality and charging convenience—while maintaining the original’s core strengths. However, those hoping for more competitive pricing, dramatically improved sound tuning, or a more compact case may need to look elsewhere.

Availability: The earbuds will be available outside the U.S., including Canada, starting June 26 in Black, White Smoke, and a limited Deep Plum colorway. U.S. buyers will have to wait until later this summer, though they can subscribe via a “Notify Me!” button on the product page to be updated on pre-orders and start of sales information.