Bose has expanded its open-ear lineup with two new models: the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) and the Bose Sport Open Earbuds. Both use an open-ear design that leaves the ear canal unobstructed, but they target different users. The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) focus on premium audio features and spatial processing, while the Sport Open Earbuds are designed primarily for exercise and outdoor use.
In the US, the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) are priced at $299, while the Sport Open Earbuds are priced at $199. Both models are scheduled to launch on October 1, 2026.
Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) Improve Audio and Battery Performance
The second-generation Ultra Open Earbuds retain the cuff-style design of the original model, allowing the earbuds to sit outside the ear canal while directing sound toward the listener.
Bose says the new model uses an updated acoustic system designed to improve bass performance and maximum output. The exterior has also been revised with a new metallic finish, while the charging case receives an updated design and support for wireless charging.
Battery life has increased to up to 9 hours of playback under standard use. Battery life is reduced when Bose Immersive Audio is enabled.
New Cinema Mode with TrueSpatial Technology
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) introduce a new Cinema Mode based on Bose TrueSpatial technology.
Cinema Mode is designed for video playback, creating a broader sound field while keeping dialogue more clearly positioned at the center. Bose Immersive Audio and head-tracking functionality are also supported.
Bose Immersive Audio uses the company’s own DSP and motion-sensing technology to create a spatial presentation without requiring content to be encoded exclusively in a specific immersive-audio format.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) support Bluetooth 5.4 and Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound with aptX Adaptive. SBC and AAC codecs are also supported, together with multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.
Water resistance is rated at IPX4.
Auto Volume Responds to Changes in the Environment
Both new models support Auto Volume, a feature that automatically adjusts playback level in response to changes in ambient noise.
This is particularly relevant to open-ear products, where outside sound remains audible by design. Bose uses the feature to help maintain a more consistent listening level as the user moves between quieter and louder environments.
For calls, Bose includes its SpeechClarity processing. The company says the system is designed to separate the user’s voice from surrounding noise and improve voice intelligibility during calls.
Sport Open Earbuds Focus on Exercise
The new Bose Sport Open Earbuds are designed specifically for running, fitness and other active use.
The earbuds use an ear-wrapping structure intended to remain stable during movement, with soft materials used around the contact points for comfort.
The Sport Open Earbuds carry an IP54 dust- and water-resistance rating, providing a higher level of environmental protection than the IPX4 rating of the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen).
Bluetooth 5.4 is supported, while battery life is rated at up to 7 hours per charge. Additional charging is available through the charging case.
Bose has also added physical controls to the Sport Open Earbuds, aimed at making operation easier during workouts.
Two Different Directions for Bose Open-Ear Audio
The key point in Bose’s latest announcement is that the company is no longer treating open-ear audio as a single premium category.
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) emphasize audio features such as Bose Immersive Audio, aptX Adaptive and Cinema Mode. The Sport Open Earbuds, meanwhile, focus on a more secure fit, IP54 protection and a lower price point.
Bose has previously used the Sport Open Earbuds name for an earlier open-ear product, but the new version introduces a different design, updated charging system and newer wireless connectivity.
With the open-ear category continuing to expand, Bose is now addressing both premium entertainment use and sports-focused listening within the same product family.
Pricing and Availability
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen): $299
- Bose Sport Open Earbuds: $199
- Availability: October 1, 2026
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will be offered in Black and White Smoke, with additional limited colors available in selected markets.
The Sport Open Earbuds will be available in Black, White Smoke and Eucalyptus Green.
Key Specifications
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen)
- Type: Open-ear wireless earbuds
- Bluetooth: 5.4
- Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive
- Bose Immersive Audio
- TrueSpatial
- Cinema Mode
- Auto Volume
- SpeechClarity
- Multipoint connectivity
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Battery life: up to 9 hours
- Wireless charging
- Price: $299
Bose Sport Open Earbuds
- Type: Open-ear wireless earbuds
- Bluetooth: 5.4
- Auto Volume
- SpeechClarity
- Dust and water resistance: IP54
- Battery life: up to 7 hours
- Wireless charging
- Colors: Black, White Smoke, Eucalyptus Green
- Price: $199
Press : https://www.bose.com/pressroom/bose-sport-open-earbuds-and-bose-ultra-open-earbuds-2nd-gen
