Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2: key updates first
Bose’s second-generation QuietComfort Ultra headphones bring three clear fixes: longer battery life, tighter active noise cancellation (ANC), and more reliable wear detection. These are the most important changes for buyers who wanted better day-long use and fewer small annoyances.
What matters now
- Battery up from ~24h to about 30 hours with ANC on (Bose’s claim and Tom’s Guide test notes).
- ANC tuned to react more smoothly to sudden noise spikes.
- Better on-head detection and faster Bluetooth disconnect when you lay the headphones flat.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 review — battery and ANC tested
Tom’s Guide says battery life is the headline fix: the Gen 2 now hits about 30 hours with ANC — a meaningful jump for frequent travelers and remote workers. In real use, this means you’re less likely to charge mid-day.
How ANC improved
Bose tuned the adaptive ANC algorithm. The result: fewer abrupt ANC swings when a loud sound appears (like a truck horn). The Verge notes that the ANC now handles sudden noise more smoothly, narrowing the gap with top Sony and Apple models.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 features & design updates
The Gen 2 keeps the same comfy fit and premium build users liked before. Key visible/usable changes:
- Improved wear detection for auto-pause and more reliable connection behavior.
- USB-C charging and small software tweaks for better call quality and multipoint Bluetooth.
Price and availability
Bose lists the new QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 on its product page and retail channels. Availability and exact street dates are live now; price shows a small bump over the prior model on some sites. Check Bose’s listing for the latest stock and colors.
Who should consider the QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2?
If ANC and comfort are your top two requirements, the Gen 2 is worth a look. The battery increase makes it a stronger pick for long trips. If you already own the previous model and are happy with battery life and calls, the upgrade is useful but not mandatory. Reviews we checked call it a solid refinement rather than a radical redesign.
Quick facts
- Battery: ~30 hours with ANC (claimed/tested).
- Major upgrades: ANC smoothing, wear detection, USB-C.
- Pricing/availability: See Bose product page for current listings.
Sources i used in this article
I read Tom’s Guide’s hands-on today and cross-checked The Verge, SoundGuys and Bose’s official listing to verify battery, ANC and availability details. Key sources: Tom’s Guide, The Verge, SoundGuys, Bose product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 release?
Bose has listed the Gen 2 on its product pages and some retailers show stock now — check Bose’s store for exact availability and regional dates.
How long is the QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 battery life?
Reviews and Bose say roughly 30 hours with ANC on, up from about 24 hours on the first model. Real daily use will vary by volume and features.
What changed in ANC on the QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2?
Bose updated the adaptive ANC algorithm so it reacts more smoothly to sudden noises, improving the listening experience in busy places.
Should I upgrade from the first QuietComfort Ultra?
If you need better battery life and fewer connection or detection quirks, yes. If you’re happy with your current pair, the Gen 2 is more of a refinement than a must-have.
Author note
I’m Emily R. Dawson. I checked Tom’s Guide and other trusted reviews to report only tested facts and company claims. Where details are new or limited, I flagged them as “reported” or cited the source. I avoid speculation — follow us for updates.