Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen launches with USB-C lossless audio

Bose on Wednesday unveiled the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen over ear headphones, saying the updated flagship will be available for preorder from September 10 with shipments beginning in early October and U.S. availability set to start October 2. Priced at 449, the second generation refines the companys QuietComfort line with wired lossless audio, improved noise cancellation and a notable battery boost while largely retaining the look and comfort of the original model.

Bose said the QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen adds USB-C wired audio capable of 16bit at 44.1 or 48kHz playback, which the company presents as both a lossless listening option and a low latency mode for desktop and mobile gaming. The headphones also keep the 2.5 millimeter jack and include a 2.5mm to 3.5mm cable in the box. Wireless connectivity is handled via Bluetooth 5.4 with support for SBC, AAC and Qualcomm aptX Adaptive codecs.

Under the hood, Bose described several software and hardware refinements. CustomTune ear calibration now operates more effectively to tailor audio and noise cancellation to each users ear shape, and an updated ActiveSense algorithm is intended to make adaptive noise cancellation and Aware...