Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Get Major 2nd-Gen Upgrade, Launching October 2

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Get Major 2nd-Gen Upgrade, Launching October 2

Bose has officially announced the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen), marking a significant update to its flagship over-ear ANC headphones. Preorders opened today, with availability set for October 2, 2025, at a retail price of $449, just a modest $20 increase over the original model The VergeTom's GuideAndroid Central.

What’s New?

• Lossless Audio over USB-C - The most notable addition is wired USB-C support for true lossless audio playback up to 16-bit/48 kHz, along with the retained 2.5 mm analog headphone jack The VergeTom's GuideHiConsumptionGear Patrol.

• Extended Battery Life - Offers approximately 30 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) on, and a remarkable 45 hours with ANC completely turned off, all configurable via the companion app The VergeTom's GuideHiConsumptionGear Patrol.

• Enhanced ANC Engine - Bose's updated ActiveSense ANC now leverages 10 microphones and new algorithms to adapt more naturally to ambient noise; includes refined Aware Mode for smoother transitions in loud environments Tom's GuideAndroid CentralWhat Hi-Fi?.

• Cinema Mode - A new Immersive “Cinema Mode” delivers a more natural, dialog-focused experience by simulating a wider, forward-focused soundstage, ideal for films, podcasts, and audiobooks The VergeTom's GuideHiConsumptionGear Patrol.

• Smart Wear Detection & Standby - Enhanced sensors automatically power on the headphones when worn and put them into a deep low-power standby when laid flat or stored, preserving battery for months The VergeAndroid CentralGear Patrol.

• Connectivity Upgrades - Now supports Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint pairing, Google Fast Pair, Spotify Tap, and high-quality codecs including SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive The VergeWhat Hi-Fi?HiConsumptionAndroid Central.

• Subtle Design Refresh - Retains the familiar QuietComfort look, now available in four color options: Black, White Smoke, plus two new choices, Driftwood Sand and Midnight Violet The VergeTom's Guide+1Gear Patrol.

How It Stacks Up

Despite its familiar exterior, the Gen 2 model brings meaningful improvements that cater to both audiophiles and everyday users:

• Audiophiles will appreciate the wired lossless audio option and better soundstage via Cinema Mode.

• Frequent travelers gain from the longer battery life, improved standby intelligence, and superior noise cancellation.

• Multidevice users benefit from Bluetooth multipoint and fast pairing features for seamless switching.

Reviewers note these updates aren't revolutionary, but they deliver appreciable enhancements across the board, especially when compared to competitors like Sony’s WH-1000XM6 and the iPhone-tailored AirPods Max 2 Tom's GuideWhat Hi-Fi?TechRadar.

With a launch date of October 2, Bose presents a refined successor to its best-in-class noise-canceling headphones. The second-gen QuietComfort Ultra strikes a compelling balance: wired audiophile-grade playback, improved battery and ANC, and user-friendly smart features, all while maintaining comfort and premium design.

For buyers eyeing top-tier ANC performance with modern usability, in both wired and wireless contexts, these are well worth considering