Bose has just unveiled the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen), their latest high-end open-ear earbuds. This new version retains the brand’s signature clip-on design but comes packed with some handy upgrades, like extended battery life, wireless charging, Bluetooth 5.4, and support for Snapdragon Sound.
These fresh earbuds will set you back $299 in the US, matching the launch price of the original Ultra Open Earbuds. Bose has announced that they’ll be available for general purchase starting October 1, 2026, but My Bose members can snag them a bit earlier.
The original Ultra Open Earbuds made their debut over two years ago, featuring a design that strayed from the typical true wireless earbuds. Instead of fitting snugly inside the ear canal, these earbuds rest around the outer ear, keeping your ears open so you can enjoy your music while still being aware of your surroundings.
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Same open-ear design, updated hardware
Bose has kept the basic design for the second generation. The earbuds still use a flexible clip that sits around the back of the ear, with the speaker positioned near the ear canal.
That means there are no silicone ear tips and no traditional in-ear seal. The design is useful for people who do not like the feeling of in-ear earbuds or want to hear their surroundings while listening.
The second-generation model gets a more refined metallic finish and a redesigned cap. Bose has also adjusted the flex joint as part of the design changes.
The charging case has received a more useful upgrade. It is smaller and can stand upright, while also adding wireless charging. The original Ultra Open Earbuds did not offer wireless charging.
9-hour battery life
Bose has increased the battery life from the previous model.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) offer up to nine hours of playback on a single charge. The original model was rated for up to 7.5 hours, giving the new version roughly 20% more battery life.
The charging case adds another 19.5 hours of listening time, according to Bose.
As with other wireless earbuds, the actual battery life will depend on volume and the features being used. Even so, the nine-hour rating makes the new model better suited to long listening sessions without needing to return to the case.
Cinema Mode is a major new feature
Bose has also introduced a new Cinema Mode for the second-generation earbuds.
The feature uses Bose’s TrueSpatial technology to create a wider soundstage when watching movies, TV shows and other video content. Bose says it is designed to keep dialogue centered while making the rest of the audio feel more spacious.
The earbuds also support Bose Immersive Audio, which can be controlled through the Bose app.
Users can choose between different listening modes, including Stereo, Immersion and Cinema, depending on the type of content they are playing.
Bluetooth 5.4 and Snapdragon Sound
Connectivity has also been updated.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) use Bluetooth 5.4 and support Bluetooth multipoint, allowing users to connect the earbuds to two devices at the same time.
They also support Snapdragon Sound with Qualcomm aptX Adaptive on compatible devices. This can provide higher-quality wireless audio and lower latency when the earbuds are paired with supported smartphones and other hardware.
The earbuds continue to support SBC and AAC codecs.
For Android users, Bose includes Google Fast Pair for quicker setup. Google Find Hub support is also part of the feature set, making it easier to locate the earbuds if they are misplaced.
Better calls and automatic volume
Bose has made changes to voice calls as well.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) use two microphones and Bose’s SpeechClarity technology to improve voice pickup during calls.
Another useful feature is Auto Volume. It can automatically adjust the listening volume when the surrounding sound level changes. This means users do not have to manually change the volume every time they move between quieter and noisier environments.
The Bose app also allows users to customize shortcuts for features such as Spotify Tap, the phone’s voice assistant and Immersive Audio.
IPX4 water resistance
The new earbuds retain an IPX4 rating.
That makes them resistant to sweat and light water splashes, but they are not designed for submersion. This is lower than the IP54 rating offered by Bose’s Sport Open Earbuds, which were also announced alongside the new Ultra Open model.
The IPX4 rating should be enough for normal daily use and light workouts, but users should still avoid exposing the earbuds to heavy water.
Price and release date
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will be available in Black, White Smoke, Cherry Chocolate and Olive Green. Bose is also offering a Sky Pink version in selected markets.
The price is $299 in the US, matching the original Ultra Open Earbuds. Bose has set October 1, 2026 as the general release date, while My Bose members can place orders earlier.
Source: Bose
Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
