Bose has rolled out the second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds, sticking to the $299 launch price of the original while reworking the case and audio hardware. The open cuff design remains intact, clipping around the outer ear rather than sealing inside the canal, but several hardware and software quirks from the 2024 model have been addressed.
Out of the box, the charging case now rests upright on a silicone flat base. That shift moves the USB-C port to one side of the shell and the pairing button to the opposite flank. Qi wireless charging is now integrated directly into the case. On the first-generation release, gaining wireless charging meant buying a separate $49 accessory cover.
The clip mechanism itself has received subtle physical tweaks. The flexible silicone band linking the outer barrel to the speaker housing is less rigid, easing the process of fitting them around your earlobe. While the outer caps retain plastic construction, they now sport a beveled edge with a reflective metallic finish. Water resistance stays at IPX4, sufficient for sweat and rain.
Internal Tweaks and Listening Modes
Bose fitted the 2nd Gen model with a new driver tuned for higher output and deeper bass response, alongside upgraded microphone hardware for calls. Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity comes enabled immediately, allowing simultaneous connections to a phone and computer. Wireless duties run on Bluetooth 5.4, supporting SBC, AAC, and Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive codec via Snapdragon Sound. Android devices also get Google Fast Pair. Auracast broadcast audio is not supported.
Software controls route through the Bose app, where listeners get a standard three-band equalizer rather than the granular multi-band controls seen on rival gear. Alongside Bose's existing Immersive Audio spatial profiles, a new Cinema Mode arrives for video and spoken-word media. The profile expands the soundstage while pinning dialogue dead center.
Auto Volume also returns to adjust playback dynamically based on environmental racket. In testing by SoundGuys, the feature proved overly aggressive, abruptly boosting output to high levels when triggered by ambient noise like office air conditioning.
Battery Life and Rollout
Official specifications rate the earbuds for nine hours of continuous play, dropping down to five hours when engaging spatial modes. Lab measurements from SoundGuys showed the hardware substantially overperforming that baseline, reaching 13 hours and 1 minute on a single charge. The upright case holds another 19.5 hours, bringing total reserve listening time to 28.5 hours. A quick 10-minute top-up provides around two hours of juice, while a full charge takes an hour.
Bose has also outlined an upcoming firmware release. That patch is scheduled to add Google Find Hub tracking support, Alexa+ integration, and a dedicated Apple Music shortcut.
GDFiled by The Gadgets Desk
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