Bose is expanding its portfolio of open-ear headphones, drawing a clearer line between everyday use and workouts. With the second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds and the newly introduced Sport Open Earbuds, the manufacturer leaves the ear canal completely unblocked, allowing ambient sounds to remain naturally audible. Pre-orders kick off on September 17, with phased deliveries starting in October.
Sport Open Earbuds: Secure Fit for Running and Workouts
The Sport Open Earbuds constitute a distinct product line designed specifically for athletic activities like running and gym workouts. Departing visually from the cuff-style models, they rely on soft silicone to ensure a snug, secure fit. Each earbud weighs ten grams. The housing is IP54-certified, ensuring protection against dust, water splashes, and sweat. Tactile physical buttons handle playback controls.
An integrated Auto-Volume feature automatically adjusts playback levels based on noise in the workout environment. Bose rates battery life at up to seven hours on a single charge. The included upright charging case supports wireless charging and adds another 22 hours of listening time.
Ultra Open Earbuds 2: Refined Cuff Design
For daily use, Bose positions the second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds as its flagship model. They retain the signature cuff design that clips onto the outer ear. A new metal cap with a beveled finish highlights the visual overhaul. Under the hood, an upgraded audio driver aims to deliver higher maximum volume and deeper bass response compared to the predecessor.
Furthermore, the flagship model supports Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive, enabling higher bitrates and lower latency on compatible Android devices. With its proprietary TrueSpatial technology, Bose also introduces spatial audio featuring a dedicated Cinema Mode tailored for videos and podcasts. Battery life increases to up to nine hours per charge, with the case providing an additional 19.5 hours.
Shared Connectivity and Upcoming Firmware Features
By design, both series omit Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to ensure warning signals and conversations stay clearly audible in daily life. To keep phone calls intelligible even in noisy surroundings, Bose incorporates its SpeechClarity system. This setup uses AI-based signal processing and dedicated microphones to isolate the user’s voice from background noise.
For wireless connectivity, both variants rely on Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint support for simultaneous connections to two devices. Alongside SBC and AAC, Google Fast Pair is supported for seamless pairing with Android hardware. Audio settings can be fine-tuned via a three-band equalizer in the Bose app. Following the October 1 launch, an upcoming firmware update will add support for the Google Find Hub network, the Alexa+ voice assistant, and Apple Music shortcuts.
Pricing and Availability
The second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds will hit shelves on October 1 at a recommended retail price of €299.95. The Sport Open Earbuds follow on October 15 for €199.95 (MSRP). Both models launch in Black and Smoke White. Bose is also offering the sport version in a limited-edition Eucalyptus Green, while the Ultra model will feature special colorways in Cherry Chocolate, Olive Green, and Sky Pink.
Sources: Computerbase.de/news
