The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 earbuds represent a significant leap forward from their predecessors, boasting several key improvements that enhance both functionality and user experience. This review highlights five major upgrades that address common criticisms leveled at previous Bose earbuds, focusing on areas where users have expressed the most need for enhancement. From a dramatic overhaul of microphone quality to a refined ActiveSense system and the much-requested ability to disable touch controls, Bose has clearly listened to user feedback.These enhancements, coupled with the welcome addition of wireless charging and a redesigned wax guard, contribute to a more refined and convenient listening experience. While a comprehensive evaluation of noise cancellation and overall audio performance is still forthcoming, the improvements detailed below strongly suggest a substantial upgrade. This review delves into each of these key enhancements, providing a detailed look at how these changes impact the overall user experience and ultimately, whether they justify the price point.
Pros And Cons
- Improved mic pickup with AI-powered noise suppression (rank A call quality)
- Smoother transition between transparency and noise-cancelling modes
- Option to turn off touch controls
- Wireless charging included
- Improved wax guard design
- Very capable in dealing with low frequencies
- Poor call quality in noisy environments
- Lack of wireless charging (unless a special cover is purchased)
- Wax guard design makes wax removal difficult
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Mic Pickup Enhancement
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 boasts a significant upgrade in microphone quality. Bose has implemented a new AI-powered noise suppression system, promising clearer calls, even in noisy environments. This addresses a persistent weakness in previous Bose earbuds, which often received lower ratings for call clarity.
The original QC Ultra and earlier models struggled with background noise interference. This new generation aims to elevate the call quality to a level comparable with the best in the market. The reviewer anticipates a noticeable improvement based on the company's claims.
ActiveSense Improvements
ActiveSense, the feature that automatically switches between noise cancellation and transparency modes based on ambient noise, has been refined. The transition between modes is smoother and less jarring in the QC Ultra 2, offering a more seamless listening experience.
While not a major upgrade for all users, the improved ActiveSense will be appreciated by those who frequently use transparency mode. The smoother transitions minimize the disruptive shifts between noise cancellation and ambient sound awareness.
Customizable Touch Controls
The QC Ultra 2 finally allows users to disable touch controls entirely. This is a welcome addition for individuals prone to accidental taps and presses. It offers greater control and prevents unintentional actions.
While many users prefer touch controls, the option to disable them increases usability and reduces frustration. This is a thoughtful inclusion for a wider user base.
Wireless Charging and Wax Guard
Wireless charging is now included out-of-the-box with the QC Ultra 2. This eliminates the need for an extra accessory, adding convenience. Compatibility with various wireless charging pads is also noted.
The redesigned wax guard is another welcome improvement. The previous design made wax removal difficult. The new design addresses this common issue, improving longevity and hygiene. This showcases Bose's attention to detail in addressing user feedback.
Conclusion
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 earbuds offer several notable upgrades over their predecessor, addressing previous shortcomings in microphone quality, ActiveSense transitions, and usability. Wireless charging and the improved wax guard add significant convenience.
While the reviewer will conduct thorough testing of noise cancellation and sound quality, the improvements detailed above suggest a significant enhancement. Whether these changes justify the price point remains to be seen, but the additions appear valuable for many users.