Bose is relaunching its QuietComfort headphones. The second generation features a redesigned look, Bose Immersive Audio with TrueSpatial technology, improved noise cancellation, and USB-C audio up to 24-bit/48 kHz.
Bose is updating one of its most popular headphones. The new QuietComfort Headphones 2nd Gen are designed to bring Bose’s classic formula for success—powerful noise cancellation, exceptional comfort, and easy operation—into a modernized form. They also feature a new industrial design, additional color options, and features that were previously reserved for the more expensive QuietComfort Ultra series.
According to the manufacturer, pre-orders for the second generation of Bose QuietComfort Headphones will open on August 8, 2026, via Bose.com and select retailers. Shipping is scheduled to begin on August 13. In the U.S., the price is $359. The available colors include Black, White Smoke, and three limited-edition variants: Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint, and Rosewood Mauve.
Bose Immersive Audio is Coming to the QuietComfort Lineup
The most significant new feature is Bose TrueSpatial Technology. This gives the QuietComfort Headphones 2nd Gen three Bose Immersive Audio modes that were previously exclusive to the QuietComfort Ultra series: Still, Motion, and Cinema.
Bose Immersive Audio works with any stereo source and is designed to create a virtual speaker experience. Instead of placing the sound directly inside your head, it gives the impression that you’re sitting in front of a 2.0 speaker system. In Still Mode, the virtual soundstage remains fixed in the room, even when your head moves. Motion Mode, on the other hand, allows the sound to follow your head movements and is designed for use on the go. Cinema Mode is designed to create a more theater-like experience for videos or podcasts, widening the soundstage and keeping dialogue clearly centered.
USB-C audio up to 24-bit/48 kHz
Bose is also upgrading its wired playback capabilities. The new QuietComfort Headphones retain the Bose sound with proprietary SoundDesign DSP processing, but now also support lossless playback via USB-C at up to 24-bit/48 kHz.
It’s not just the music playback that’s interesting here. Bose specifically refers to “two-way USB-C audio.” This means USB-C can be used not only for high-quality sound but also for voice transmission during phone calls and video conferences via apps like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. A USB-C-to-3.5-mm cable is included so that the headphones remain compatible with analog sources such as in-flight entertainment systems.
QuietControl: ANC with improved fit compensation
Bose now uses the term “QuietControl” for its noise-canceling technology. According to the manufacturer, the active noise cancellation has been refined compared to the first generation. Users for whom the ear cushions don’t always provide a perfect seal—for example, due to eyeglass arms, hair, or headwear—are expected to benefit the most.
To achieve this, Bose uses a six-microphone system with new adaptive feedforward controls. It’s designed to better compensate for gaps in the seal and maintain stable ANC performance even when the fit isn’t ideal. This can be more important in everyday use than mere lab results, since over-ear headphones are rarely worn under perfect conditions.
Transparency Mode has also been redesigned. According to Bose, ActiveSense now responds more smoothly and naturally to sudden noise spikes—such as a passing train—in Aware Mode. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, noise cancellation can be adjusted manually in the Bose app or turned off entirely. You can save your own modes and switch between them using the action button on the left ear cup.
New design with more color
Visually, Bose has significantly refreshed the QuietComfort Headphones. The headband has been redesigned and now features smoother-moving, adjustable sliders as well as softer faux-leather padding. The clamping force is designed to combine a secure fit with a lightweight feel. New oval-shaped ear cups are also designed to create a more modern, sleeker profile.
In addition, there are colorful accents on the inside of the ear cups. For the limited-edition models, Bose has opted for two-tone designs: Eucalyptus Green combines a nature-inspired shade of green with a yellow interior accent; Dewdrop Mint, according to Bose, evokes 1990s mint tones with teal accents; while Rosewood Mauve pairs a deep mauve with a bold fuchsia.
Physical buttons instead of touch-only controls
When it comes to controls, Bose remains refreshingly practical. The new QuietComfort Headphones feature physical buttons on the ear cups. The right ear cup houses the main controls for playback, pause, volume, and calls. On the left, there’s a dedicated button for listening modes and shortcuts, such as for the voice assistant on the connected device or Spotify Tap.
For wireless connectivity, Bose uses Bluetooth Core 5.4 with multipoint, allowing two devices to remain paired at the same time. Android users also benefit from Google Fast Pair for faster setup.
Battery Life and the Bose App
Battery life is up to 24 hours. With Immersive Audio enabled, Bose claims up to 18 hours. Convenient: The headphones can also be charged while you’re wearing them. A 15-minute quick charge is said to provide up to 2.5 hours of playback.
You can further customize the headphones using the Bose app. Features include a three-band EQ, custom listening modes, shortcut configuration, Bluetooth device management, and firmware updates.
Technical Specifications for Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen)
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|
| Design | Wireless Over-Ear Headphones |
| Noise Cancellation | Bose QuietControl |
| Microphones | Six-microphone system for ANC |
| Transparency Mode | Aware Mode with Enhanced ActiveSense |
| 3D/Surround Sound | Bose TrueSpatial Technology |
| Immersive Audio Modes | Still, Motion, Cinema |
| DSP | Bose SoundDesign |
| USB Audio | USB-C up to 24-bit/48 kHz |
| USB-C Functionality | Two-way USB-C audio for playback and voice |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth Core 5.4 |
| Multipoint | Yes |
| Android Convenience | Google Fast Pair |
| Operation | Physical buttons on both ear cups |
| App | Bose App |
| EQ | Three-band equalizer |
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours |
| Battery Life with Immersive Audio | Up to 18 hours |
| Fast Charging | 15 minutes for up to 2.5 hours of playback |
| Cable | USB-C-to-3.5-mm cable included |
| Colors | Black, White Smoke |
| Limited-Edition Colors | Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint, Rosewood Mauve |
| U.S. Price | $359 |
| Pre-order | Starting August 8, 2026 |
| Delivery | Starting August 13, 2026 |
