# Bose Launches Second-Gen Ultra Open and New Sport Open Earbuds Premium audio brand updates its open-ear lineup with improved sound and sport-focused models. - **Source:** [CNET](https://brifing.si/source/ce507de7-7f24-4ff4-ab6d-7635abcc095a) - **Published:** 2026-09-17 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c55baaca-2fca-4ce6-b417-0659e050976f ## Next-gen audio upgrades Bose's Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) feature new drivers for louder playback and deeper bass, along with TrueSpatial technology including a Cinema mode. The updated model maintains the $299 price point of its predecessor while extending battery life from 7 to 9 hours. Both new models preserve the distinctive cuff-clip design that proved comfortable in the original version, now available in four color options including limited editions. ## Sport-focused alternative The newly introduced Sport Open Earbuds offer a $199 option with IP54-rated sweat and dust resistance, targeting active users with a lighter, more durable design. While lacking Immersive Audio, they provide 7-hour battery life and tactile controls in three color variants. Their design resembles competitors like Shokz OpenDots 2, positioned as purpose-built for athletic use with enhanced secure fit compared to standard models. ## Market timing strategy Bose scheduled both models for preorder starting September 19, with October 1 shipping dates. This launch comes two years after the original Ultra Open Earbuds debuted in February 2024, during which the clip-on earbud market expanded significantly. The release coincides with updates to Bose's QuietComfort line, creating a coordinated premium audio product refresh across multiple form factors. ## Competitive landscape The new Bose models enter a market now crowded with clip-on alternatives, many priced below $300. Competitors like Anker Aero Clip 2 and Baseus XC1 offer similar features at $100-200, while Apple's $129 AirPods 5 provide active noise cancellation. Bose maintains premium positioning but acknowledges likely frequent discounts, reflecting market pressure to justify its higher price points against proliferating options. ## Technical specifications The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) carry an IPX4 rating for splash resistance and feature head-tracking spatial audio. Battery life decreases when using Immersive Audio mode. The Sport model prioritizes durability with silicone construction and secure fit, omitting advanced audio features to focus on athletic performance. Both use Bose's signature open-ear design that maintains environmental awareness during use. ## Color and edition options Ultra Open Earbuds offer black, white smoke, and limited-edition cherry chocolate or olive green finishes. The Sport version comes in black, white smoke, and eucalyptus green - matching a color option from Bose's recent QuietComfort headphone refresh. These aesthetic choices complement the technical upgrades, with limited editions potentially driving collector interest and early adoption. ## Review expectations While hands-on testing remains pending until October, initial specifications suggest the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will lead in sound quality among open-ear options. The Sport model faces direct competition from established athletic audio brands. Both represent Bose's attempt to maintain leadership in a niche it pioneered, now facing pressure from lower-priced alternatives with comparable core features. ## Pricing strategy Bose maintains premium pricing despite market saturation, betting on brand loyalty and technical superiority. The $299 Ultra model and $199 Sport version position above most competitors, with anticipated frequent discounts acknowledging price sensitivity. This reflects the challenge of justifying premium margins in a rapidly commoditizing product category where design patents offer limited protection. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/bose-just-dropped-new-sport-open-earbuds-and-ultra-open-earbuds-2nd-gen/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._