Bose is back with the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd generation), successors to a model already appreciated for its comfort and audio performance. Aesthetically, few changes: the tips retain their legendary softness, but they now integrate a wax filter to simplify cleaning and prevent any sound degradation over time.
AI-enhanced listening
The real innovations are inside, with a strong use of artificial intelligence. This is used to refine adaptive noise cancellation, particularly in Aware mode, which lets ambient sounds through. Thanks to this technology, the earphones react more quickly to sudden noises, such as a siren or a passing subway. Objective: Limit distractions without completely cutting the user off from the outside world.
AI also improves voice pickup during calls. Bose explains that it has adopted certain technologies from its hearing aids to better isolate speech from background noise. An attractive promise for users who are often on the go or in teleconferences.
On the practical side, these new headphones finally support wireless charging, a feature missing from the first model unless you add a specific case sold separately. Another welcome adjustment: touch controls can now be disabled via the Bose app, an option highly requested by users who are annoyed by accidental activations.
The QC Ultra 2 are launched at €299, less expensive than their predecessors at their launch (€349). Three colors are planned: black, smoked white, and a new deep plum.
At the same time, Bose is expanding its range of portable speakers. The new SoundLink Plus is positioned between the Flex and Max models. Compact yet powerful, it features a subwoofer, a tweeter, and four passive radiators, with an automatic sound adjustment system (Active EQ) based on the environment.
This speaker offers up to 20 hours of listening time, phone charging via USB-C, and a Bluetooth 5.4 connection. It will be available in black, twilight blue, and lemon yellow (the latter starting June 18), priced at €279.
Bose is also relaunching its smallest speaker, the SoundLink Micro, in a 2025 version with double the battery life: up to 12 hours. It retains its miniature format, gains a USB-C connection, the same Active EQ system, and compatibility with the Bose app. It also includes a detachable strap that's very useful for attaching it to a bike, a bag, or even in a shower.
The SoundLink Micro will cost around €130 and will be available in black and dark blue. The exact launch date will be announced in the summer.
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