While some fans of the iconic American brand are currently worried about the server shutdown for the SoundTouch system introduced in 2013 (as we reported), Bose is bringing a breath of fresh air to the home audio market with the new Lifestyle collection. The newly unveiled product range aims to combine classic hi-fi standards with modern flexibility and ease of use. The goal is a system that integrates seamlessly into everyday life without compromising on sound.
Restart for a legendary product line
The name “Lifestyle” has a long tradition at Bose. Previous systems and the well-known Wave Radio have already set benchmarks for compact, powerful sound. With the new generation, Bose is revisiting this idea and bringing it into the present: connected, flexible, and design-oriented.
“With the Lifestyle collection, every detail should serve a single purpose: to be able to enjoy great sound without any complications,” explains Raza Haider, President of Premium Consumer Audio at Bose.
Three components, one system
The new series consists of three central building blocks: the Bose Lifestyle Ultra speaker, the Bose Lifestyle Ultra soundbar, and the Bose Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer.
All components are designed to be used individually or combined into a comprehensive multi-room and home cinema system. Everything is possible, from a compact single speaker in the study to a full 7.1.4 setup in the living room.
Flexible multi-room with an open approach
A central point of the new collection is its openness. The devices support both Apple AirPlay and Google Cast, allowing them to be controlled directly from almost any app. Spotify Connect is also integrated.
Interestingly, according to Bose, the speakers can even be grouped with devices from other manufacturers. This deliberately sets the collection apart from closed ecosystems.
New technology for more surround sound
Technically, Bose relies on several in-house developments. The Lifestyle Ultra speaker uses an evolution of the well-known Direct/Reflecting technology. Two drivers fire forward, while a third fires upward, incorporating reflections from the ceiling and walls into the soundstage.
Additionally, TrueSpatial technology ensures more precise spatial placement of sound, while CleanBass and the QuietPort opening provide powerful low-frequency reproduction despite the compact design.
Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and new architecture
The Lifestyle Ultra soundbar is Bose’s first fundamental new development in this area in over ten years. It works with a total of six full-range drivers, complemented by additional PhaseGuide elements.
The system supports Dolby Atmos and creates three-dimensional sound including height information—without the need for additional speakers. For non-Atmos content, internal processing still ensures a more spatial sound image.
Another feature is SpeechClarity technology, which specifically highlights voices. This is complemented by CustomTune, which automatically adjusts the sound to the room.
Subwoofer for the final punch
The Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer adds low-frequency energy to the system. CleanBass technology is used here as well. In combination with the soundbar and speakers, a complete home cinema setup is created with a clear division of tasks between deep bass, mids, and highs.
Design intended for the living space
Visually, Bose takes a living-room-friendly approach. Fabric covers with textured surfaces meet clean shapes and glass elements. The devices are available in Black and Smoke White, with the speaker also available as a limited edition in “Driftwood Sand” with a light wood base.
Easy setup and control
The redesigned Bose app guides you through the setup step by step. After that, volume, sound parameters, and sources can be controlled centrally. Alternatively, operation via touch surfaces, voice assistants like Alexa, or classic remote controls is possible.
Prices and availability
The new Lifestyle collection will be available starting May 15, and pre-orders are already possible. Prices are as follows:
- 349.95 euros for the Bose Lifestyle Ultra speaker
- 999.95 euros for the Bose Lifestyle Ultra soundbar
- 899.95 euros for the Bose Lifestyle Ultra subwoofer
Our take
With the new Lifestyle collection, Bose is attempting to combine classic hi-fi virtues with modern usage. Open streaming standards, flexible system architecture, and living-room-friendly design are at the heart of it. It will be exciting to see if the concept is as convincing in everyday use as it is on paper.
