Next-gen/QuietComfort

Bose is officially unveiling its next-generation QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) today. After launching its high-end 2nd Gen Ultra QuietComfort over-ears last September, today it is taking its more affordable noise cancelling headphones into the next-generation. 

Bose says the new 2nd Gen QuietComfort Headphones feature refreshed industrial design that delivers a “modern new look to one of the brand’s most recognizable products.” They of course will retain the “legendary noise cancellation and renowned comfort” by way of proprietary Bose tech, but there are some marked enhancements here according to the brand outside of the new physical look and design. 

All new industrial design featuring an updated headband with smooth adjustable sliders, more plush cushioning and oval-shaped earcups for a more seamless profile and modern look.

Firstly, it is bring Bose Immersive Audio to its more affordable set for the first – a feature previously exclusive to the Ultra cans. This includes “Cinema Mode – an Immersive Audio Mode designed for clearer dialogue while maintaining a wide, externalized soundstage for video content.”

Enabling “wired lossless audio playback up to 24bit/48kHz and compatibility for clearer voice input with videoconferencing apps like Zoom and Microsoft Teams,” the all-new over-eras include two-way USB-C audio and also be used while charging this time around. 

When it comes to Bose QuietComfort cans, it’s always been about the world-class active noise cancellation, and it is once again here with the new 2nd gen set. Bose says users will get an overall improved ANC experience here as “ActiveSense now responds more naturally to sudden spikes of noise when in Aware Mode” thanks to the six-microphone ANC system with improved compensation for “gaps in the earcup seal, enabling improved performance for listeners who wear glasses; and ANC can now be turned off completely in the Bose app.”

Pre-orders will go live on August 8 on the official Bose site and, presumably other major retailers, starting at $359. You’ll find the brand’s usual Black and White Smoke colorways alongside three limited-edition two-tone paint jobs: Eucalyptus Green, Dewdrop Mint and Rosewood Mauve.

Just keep in mind, you can score the latest Ultra QuietComfort 2nd Gen set down as low as $369 at Amazon right now.