Bose’s upgraded QuietComfort headphones add head-tracking immersive audio

Bose announced a second-generation version of its entry-level QuietComfort noise-canceling headphones that were originally introduced in late 2023. The new headphones feature a refreshed design with a more comfortable headband that’s easier to adjust and ANC that better adapts to changing noise environments. The second-gen QuietComfort are also getting Bose’s TrueSpatial immersive audio technology that was previously only available on the company’s pricier QuietComfort Ultra.

While the original version of the QuietComfort headphones debuted at $349 nearly three years ago, Bose’s second-gen version is carrying forward a small price bump to $359. They’ll be available for preorder starting on August 8th through Bose’s online store and other retailers, and shipping is expected to start on August 13th. Color options include black, white smoke, eucalyptus green, dewdrop mint, and rosewood mauve.

The most compelling reason to upgrade are the new Bose Immersive Audio listening modes. Using side-to-side head tracking, the headphones can make what you’re listening to sound like it’s coming from a fixed location in a room, or the tracking can be reduced to keep the sweet spot moving with you while you’re listening on the go. An additional mode attempts to simulate a “theater-like experience” by spatializing and balancing various sounds to ensure dialogue remains clear and centered while you’re watching videos or listening to podcasts.

Bose’s headphones have long been known for their excellent ANC, and the second-gen QuietComfort improve that further with an upgraded Aware mode that more naturally adjusts the intensity of the noise canceling in response to sudden changes in what’s going on around you, like a passing vehicle. The six microphones the QuietComfort use for ANC now better compensate for gaps in the ear cup seal so noise canceling remains effective for those wearing the headphones with glasses.

Other upgrades include support for Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity for pairing and switching between multiple sources, the option to now physically connect to an audio source over USB-C for lossless playback, and improved button placement so the headphones’ controls feel more intuitive. Battery life is still rated at up to 24 hours (or up to 18 hours when using Immersive Audio features), and while a 15-minute quick charge is enough for 2.5 hours of playback, you can continue to use the second-generation QuietComfort while they’re charging over USB-C.