Bose has expanded its open ear audio lineup with two new models aimed at people who want to hear their surroundings while listening to music.
The new Bose Sport Open Earbuds are priced at $199, while the Ultra Open Earbuds second generation will cost $299. Both models use an open ear design rather than sealing the ear canal with silicone tips.
That makes them different from conventional wireless earbuds. Instead of blocking outside sound, they are designed to let environmental noise remain audible, which can be useful for running, commuting, outdoor exercise, and other situations where awareness matters.
Preorders begin on September 19, with general availability scheduled for October 1.
Sport Open Earbuds focus on stability during exercise
The Sport Open Earbuds are a new addition to the lineup and are specifically designed for movement.
Bose uses a C shaped arm that wraps around the outer ear. The contact surface has a soft matte silicone finish intended to keep the earbuds stable without requiring an in ear seal.
The company says the fit is secure enough to remain in place during activities involving aggressive movement, including running, head movement, and gym workouts.
The earbuds also carry an IP54 rating for protection against sweat, light splashes, and dust.
| Feature | Sport Open Earbuds | Ultra Open Earbuds 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $199 | $299 |
| Design | Open ear sport cuff | Open ear cuff |
| Battery life | Up to 7 hours | Up to 9 hours |
| Extra case battery | Up to 22 hours | Up to 19.5 hours |
| Water and dust rating | IP54 | Not specified in source |
| Wireless charging | Not specified | Yes |
| Bluetooth | 5.4 | 5.4 |
| SpeechClarity | Yes | Yes |
| Auto volume | Yes | Yes |
| ANC | No | No |
Battery life for the Sport Open Earbuds is rated at up to seven hours from the earbuds themselves, with the charging case providing another 22 hours.
Ultra Open Earbuds get a second generation update
The Ultra Open Earbuds second generation retain the cuff based shape of the original model but receive several hardware changes.
The exterior now includes a redesigned metallic cap with a beveled finish. Bose has also changed the charging case, making it smaller, able to stand upright, and compatible with wireless charging.
The internal driver has been redesigned as well.
Bose says the updated driver can produce deeper bass and higher output levels than the previous generation. Battery life rises to as much as nine hours of playback, with another 19.5 hours available from the case.
These changes position the second generation Ultra model as the more premium option for people who prefer an open ear design but want stronger audio performance and additional convenience features.
Both models share several audio technologies
Neither pair includes active noise cancellation, which would work against the basic purpose of an open ear design.
Instead, both use Bose OpenAudio technology, which attempts to direct sound toward the listener while reducing the amount of audio that leaks outward.
Both models also support SpeechClarity.
The feature uses AI assisted voice processing to reduce background noise during phone calls, helping the microphone emphasize speech over surrounding sounds.
Auto volume is included as well. This feature automatically changes playback volume depending on ambient noise levels, which could be useful when moving between quiet indoor areas and louder streets or gyms.
Bluetooth 5.4 and multipoint connectivity are supported on both models, along with Google Fast Pair.
More software features are coming after launch
Bose plans to add several features through firmware updates after the October 1 release.
The planned additions include Google Find Hub support, Alexa+ integration, and shortcuts for Apple Music.
Color options will include Black and White Smoke across both products.
The Sport Open Earbuds will also be offered in a limited Eucalyptus Green finish. The Ultra Open Earbuds second generation will receive additional Cherry Chocolate, Olive Green, and Sky Pink options.
The new models give Bose two distinct choices within the growing open ear category. The Sport version puts more emphasis on secure fit, durability, and exercise, while the Ultra model adds stronger audio hardware, longer earbud battery life, and wireless charging at a higher price.
Discussion (0)
Be the first to comment.