Bose is kicking off the summer with fresh releases in the QuietComfort and SoundLink series. On June 12, the company revealed the QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd Gen), SoundLink Plus portable speaker, and SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker (2nd Gen). The SoundLink Plus speaker is now available for preorder, while the QC Ultras and Micro will be available later this summer.
Bose SoundLink Plus portable speaker
The Bose SoundLink Plus is offered in black, citrus yellow, and blue dusk. Credit: Bose / Mashable composite
Serving as a new mid-tier speaker from Bose, the Plus fits between the SoundLink Flex and SoundLink Max. It is equipped with one subwoofer, one tweeter, and four passive radiators. The speaker showcases the characteristic SoundLink design featuring a powder-coated steel grille and soft-touch silicone available in three hues: black, blue dusk, and a fresh citrus yellow.
You can connect the Plus with another Plus using Stereo Mode, where one functions as the left and the other as the right channel, or utilize the shortcut button on the unit to synchronize in Party Mode with various current SoundLink speakers, including the Max, Micro (2nd Gen), and Flex (2nd Gen).
The SoundLink Plus is priced at $269, with preorders starting June 12 (June 18 for the citrus yellow variant). General availability begins June 26.
Here’s a summary of the SoundLink Plus’s specifications:
– Up to 20 hours of playback
– Full charge in five hours
– USB-C charge-out
– IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof
– Shock- and rust-resistant
– Adjustable three-band equalizer
– Bluetooth Core 5.4 with multipoint connectivity up to 30 feet
– Dimensions: 9.1 inches W x 3.94 inches H x 3.4 inches D
– Weight: 3.29 pounds
Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd Gen)
Bose’s premium earbuds are receiving an enhancement. Credit: Bose
The original Bose QuietComfort Ultras are our top choice for noise-cancelling earbuds and earned a Mashable Choice award, so we are thrilled about their upgrade. The new flagship version introduces enhanced adaptive noise cancellation, superior call quality, and wireless case charging.
Like nearly all new technology this year, the QC Ultras include an AI element. In addition to Bose’s proprietary CustomTune sound calibration technology that tailors audio and noise cancellation based on the ear shape and surrounding environment, Bose is implementing an updated AI algorithm to enhance Aware Mode. The noise cancellation is expected to adapt more smoothly to sudden noise spikes, ensuring audio remains unmuted by nearby trains or sirens. A new AI-driven noise suppression system is also included to improve call quality on the QC Ultras while minimizing background noise such as wind or overlapping conversations.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd Gen) are available in black, white smoke, and a limited-edition deep plum, retailing for $299 with a release date set for later this summer.
The QC Ultras come in a limited-edition deep plum. Credit: Bose / Mashable composite
Here’s an overview of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds (2nd Gen)’s specifications:
– Up to six hours of playback, with an additional 18 hours via the charging case
– 20-minute quick charge for up to two hours of playback
– Immersive Audio mode
– Eight microphones
– Adjustable three-band equalizer
– IPx4 rated for water and sweat resistance
– Available in small, medium, and large ear tips and stability bands
– Bluetooth Core 5.4 with multipoint connectivity up to 30 feet
Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker (2nd Gen)
The new nylon strap serves a dual purpose of carrying the speaker or attaching it to bikes, backpacks, and more. Credit: Bose
At the ultra-portable end of the SoundLink range is the Micro — a compact speaker that delivers Bose’s renowned sound in a pocket-sized form factor. The revamped second-generation Micro boasts enhanced audio performance, USB-C connectivity, a removable nylon strap for ease of carrying or attaching, and compatibility with the Bose app. It contains one driver and dual passive radiators to enhance performance at higher frequencies without compromising bass. Similar to the new SoundLink Plus, the SoundLink Micro supports Stereo Mode and Party Mode for synchronization with other SoundLink speakers.
The Micro is available in black or blue dusk and will retail for $129 with a release date later this summer. This indicates a price increase of $10 compared to the first-gen Micro, which was priced at $119.
Here’s a rundown of the Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker (2nd Gen)’s specifications:
– Up to 12 hours of playback time
– Full charge takes four hours
– IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof
– Shock- and rust-resistant
– Adjustable three-band equalizer
– Bluetooth Core 5.4 with