Popular audio brand Bose, which pioneered the clip-on open earbud design with its Ultra Open Earbuds in 2024, is back with two new models. The company is launching the second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds and a pair of more affordable, fitness-focused Sport Open Earbuds. The introduction of these open-back headphones follows the launch of the company’s Bose QuietComfort (2nd generation) headphones in August for buyers who prefer over-ear headphones but don’t want to shell out for the more premium QuietComfort Ultra model.
The new Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd generation) and Sport Open Earbuds cost $299 and $199, respectively, and go on sale October 1. If you want, you can pre-order both starting September 19 via the Bose website or select retailers. You can choose from Black or Smoked White colors for both models, but the sport version also receives a limited edition Eucalyptus Green color. The company isn’t leaving the Ultras behind, which have their own limited-edition Cherry Chocolate, Olive Green, and Sky Pink variants.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd generation) contain several notable improvements
Bose says the Ultra Open (2nd generation) earbuds build on those of their predecessor and feature a number of improvements, including better sound and call quality as well as longer battery life. One notable change comes in the form of new drivers that allow the earbuds to deliver deeper bass and higher volume than the original Ultra Open. Another new feature you’ll benefit from is Cinema Mode, powered by Bose’s TrueSpatial technology. This will help the headphones deliver a more immersive soundstage and theater-like experience with video and podcast content. Additionally, Bose leverages AI-based voice isolation technology for better voice capture during calls.
While the overall design is largely the same as the first-generation model, there are some improvements, like a metal cap with a beveled finish instead of a matte cap with a flat finish, and a new case that stands upright and supports wireless charging – a feature absent on the original. Bose adds that the Ultra Open (2nd generation) earbuds can provide up to nine hours of playback on a single charge, with the case adding an additional 19.5 hours. However, battery backup will be reduced if you use immersive mode.
Other features include support for Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, IPX4 water resistance, Google Fast Pair, multi-point connectivity with two devices, auto volume to adjust playback based on the environment, and access to your phone’s voice assistant. Additionally, Bose plans to release a firmware update at a later date to support Google Find Hub to track the location of the earbuds and Amazon’s Alexa+ voice assistant.
Bose Sport Open Earbuds are aimed at people with a more active lifestyle
According to Bose, the new Sport Open Earbuds are designed for active activities, such as running, fitness and various outdoor activities. These have many of the same features as their more expensive cousin; However, you do not benefit from Cinema mode and the design is quite different, with more of a “C” shape. The company says this shape, combined with a soft silicone finish, will provide a snug, secure fit in your ears for intense movement. The silicone finish will also make it easier to remove any dirt or grime.
One of the highlights of these headphones is the inclusion of physical touch-sensitive buttons, which will allow you to control your playback even with your sweaty or wet fingers. These are also IP54 rated, meaning they can handle a bit of dirt or dust as well as your sweat and water splashes. The case looks like the one you get with the second-generation Ultra Open and supports wireless charging; however, there is a textured lid for added grip when opening or closing it. In terms of battery life, you’ll only get around seven hours on a single charge, but the case will add another 22 hours.
Bose’s open-back headphone offerings are certainly more premium. However, since the introduction of the original Bose Ultra Open earbuds, the market has seen many more clip-on options across all price segments, from the likes of Anker, Baseus, Sony, and Shokz. So it will be interesting to see how Bose’s latest offerings fare in the face of increased competition.
