Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2: Upgraded ANC and Battery to Rival Sony

Experience enhanced adaptive noise cancellation and longer battery life with Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones.

The Big Reveal: Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 Launches Today

Stop whatever you’re doing because this is huge news for audio lovers and Bose fans alike. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) officially drop on September 10, 2025, bringing a host of upgrades that promise to deliver one of the best noise-canceling headphone experiences on the market.

These new headphones join their recently released siblings—the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)—continuing Bose's legacy of delivering premium sound with a fresh twist. If you’ve been impressed by Bose’s previous models, prepare for some exciting enhancements.

Fresh Looks and New Features

Bose hasn’t just focused on sound this time; they’re also stepping up the style game. The QuietComfort Ultra 2 comes in stunning new colors like “Driftwood Sand” and “Midnight Violet,” alongside the classic black and white smoky finishes. It’s clear Bose is embracing a more artistic palette, aiming to please both the eyes and ears.

Beyond aesthetics, Bose has integrated wired audio support via USB-C, mirroring a feature now found on AirPods Max. This allows for high-quality 16-bit/44.1 kHz or 48 kHz audio playback through the USB-C cable, alongside the traditional 2.5-mm audio jack carried over from the last generation. For audiophiles who prefer a wired connection for pristine sound, this is a welcome inclusion.

The headphones pack a whopping ten microphones inside and outside each earcup. These work in tandem with an improved ActiveSense algorithm designed for “more precise adaptive noise cancellation and natural sound,” taking ANC to the next level.

Battery Life That Truly Shines

If there’s one thing every headphone user wants, it’s longer battery life. Bose has heard the call. The QuietComfort Ultra 2 now offers an impressive 30 hours of playback with ANC active. That’s a solid jump from the previous 24 hours and a much-needed upgrade given how battery life expectations have grown in 2025.

Even better, if you toggle off ANC and immersive audio modes, you can stretch the battery up to a remarkable 45 hours. For those who love spatial audio pleasures, the headphones still deliver a respectable 23 hours while using immersive sound features.

One particular feature I’ve grown fond of from other premium headphones is charging while using. Bose has incorporated this as well—charging through the USB-C port while jamming or watching movies without interruption. A small detail, but one that makes a big difference in everyday use.

Cinema Mode: Bringing Movies to Life

Bose has introduced a brand-new “Cinema Mode” audio setting. This mode promises “clear dialogue while maintaining a wide, external soundstage,” making it perfect for movie buffs, TV show enthusiasts, podcast listeners, and audiobook fans alike. Imagine crisp conversations combined with a rich, immersive backdrop—Bose aims to transform your living room into a personal theater.

Cinema Mode is also set to debut simultaneously on the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen, showing Bose’s commitment to a cohesive ecosystem of immersive sound products.

Connectivity and Price: The Final Piece of the Puzzle

Connectivity-wise, the QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones feature Bluetooth 5.4, an upgrade from the previous 5.3 version, offering smoother pairing and potentially better wireless stability. Plus, they support Snapdragon Sound, including aptX Adaptive codecs, which means less lag and higher-quality streaming for compatible devices.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room—the price. These headphones come with a premium tag of around £449 (approximately $429 USD). This is the same introductory price as the original model released in October 2023. While Bose hasn’t raised prices despite inflation, the competition at this level is fierce.

Sony’s stellar WH-1000XM6, which launched in May 2025, offers comparable features at about $20 less. So Bose really needs to bring their A-game to justify this price point. But given the upgrades in ANC, battery life, and sound modes, QuietComfort Ultra 2 looks poised to be a very compelling choice.

Wrapping It Up: Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 Steps Up the Game

If you’re a fan of Bose or have been hunting for headphones that blend style, substance, and cutting-edge noise cancellation, the QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) is a serious contender worth your attention.

“Ten microphones combined with an enhanced algorithm deliver more precise adaptive noise cancellation and a natural sound.” — Bose

Whether it’s for your daily commute, marathon movie sessions, or just tuning out the world, these headphones have upgraded everything that made the first generation great.

FAQ

• What’s new in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 compared to the first generation?
  The 2nd Gen features improved adaptive noise cancellation powered by ten microphones, USB-C wired audio support, a new Cinema Mode, longer battery life (up to 30 hours with ANC), and Bluetooth 5.4.
• Can I use these headphones wired?
  Yes! They support high-quality wired audio through USB-C and also retain the 2.5-mm audio jack from the previous model.
• How long does the battery last?
  You get up to 30 hours with ANC on, 23 hours with immersive audio features active, and up to 45 hours with ANC off.
• What is Cinema Mode?
  It’s an immersive audio setting designed to offer clear dialogue and a wide soundstage, enhancing movies, TV shows, podcasts, and audiobooks.
• How much do these headphones cost?
  The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 are priced at approximately $429 USD or £449 GBP, matching the launch price of the first generation.

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