Bose is refreshing its open-ear audio lineup for the first time since 2024. The new Bose open earbuds 2026 launch includes a second-generation version of the Ultra Open Earbuds and an entirely new fitness-focused model called the Sport Open Earbuds. Together, the two pairs mark Bose’s biggest push yet into the open-ear category, addressing longstanding complaints about weak bass and low volume while adding a dedicated workout option for the first time.
What’s New in the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen)
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) will retail for $299 and bring a meaningfully upgraded driver. Bose says the new driver delivers deeper bass and noticeably higher volume than the original model. This matters because volume was one of the most common criticisms of the first-generation Ultra Open Earbuds, so the improvement directly targets a known weak spot.
Battery life also gets a solid boost. Single-charge playback rises from 7.5 hours to 9 hours, giving users more time between charges. On the design side, Bose has added a metal finish with a beveled edge for a more premium look. The charging case has been redesigned too: it now stands upright on its own and supports wireless charging, which wasn’t available before.
New Software Features Across Both Models
Alongside the hardware updates, Bose is introducing several software features that apply to both new earbud models.
- SpeechClarity uses AI to isolate and enhance the wearer’s voice during phone calls, aiming for clearer conversations in noisy settings.
- Auto Volume automatically raises or lowers output based on ambient noise, so users don’t need to manually adjust levels when moving between quiet and loud environments.
- Cinema mode, exclusive to the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen), relies on Bose’s TrueSpatial technology to widen the soundstage. This is designed to make movies and TV shows feel more immersive without sealing the ear canal.
Introducing the Sport Open Earbuds
The $199 Sport Open Earbuds represent a new direction for Bose rather than a simple upgrade. Instead of reusing the Ultra Open’s shape, Bose designed a C-shaped fit meant to sit more securely during workouts. The materials reflect that fitness focus as well, with a silicone finish and a textured playback button that’s easier to control mid-run.
Durability is a priority here too. The Sport Open Earbuds carry an IP54 rating, so they can handle sweat and light rain without issue. Battery life comes in at 7 hours per charge, slightly less than the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen), but that trade-off comes with a smaller, lighter build suited for active use. Like their sibling model, the Sport Open Earbuds include both SpeechClarity and Auto Volume.
How the New Lineup Stacks Up
Bose has historically charged a premium for its open-ear earbuds, and the 2026 lineup continues that trend. However, the original Ultra Open Earbuds earned a reputation as one of Bose’s stronger releases when they debuted in 2024, thanks to comfortable, seal-free design and reliable sound quality. Whether the second-generation model can hold its ground against a growing field of open-ear competitors remains to be seen. Even so, Bose’s track record in this category suggests the new pair is worth watching closely.
Pricing, Colors, and Availability
Preorders for both the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) and the Sport Open Earbuds open on September 19, with wide availability following on October 1. Both models will ship in standard black and “white smoke” colorways. Each pair also gets its own limited-edition option: the Sport Open Earbuds come in eucalyptus green, while the Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) are available in cherry chocolate, olive green, and sky pink.
