Bose is expanding its open-ear lineup with two new clip-on models aimed at very different buyers. The $299 Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) upgrade the company’s premium everyday design, while the $199 Bose Sport Open Earbuds prioritize stability, durability and physical controls for workouts. Preorders opened September 19, 2026, and both models are scheduled to reach U.S. buyers on October 1.
The important distinction is simple: these are not noise-canceling earbuds. Both models leave the ear canal open so users can hear traffic, announcements and conversations around them. Bose is betting that improved bass, smarter volume control, clearer calls and longer battery life can make that tradeoff more appealing.
Bose now has two open-ear options for different buyers
The Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) retain the sculpted cuff shape of the original model and are designed for commuting, work and all-day listening. The Sport Open Earbuds use a slimmer C-arm cuff with soft silicone, a grippier finish and textured buttons intended to remain easy to press during a sweaty workout.
Both use Bose OpenAudio technology, which sends sound through the air near the ear instead of using bone conduction. Because the design remains open, neither model offers active noise cancellation. That makes them most attractive to runners, walkers, cyclists and office users who prefer environmental awareness over isolation.
Price, preorder date and release date
Bose confirmed the following U.S. launch details:
- Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen): $299
- Bose Sport Open Earbuds: $199
- Preorders: opened September 19, 2026
- U.S. availability: October 1, 2026
Both models come in Black and White Smoke. The Sport model also gets a limited-edition Eucalyptus Green finish, while the Ultra model adds Cherry Chocolate, Olive Green and Sky Pink limited colors.
What is new in the Ultra Open Earbuds 2nd Gen?
The flagship model’s headline upgrades focus on sound, calls, battery life and convenience rather than a dramatic redesign. Bose says a newly engineered driver produces deeper bass and higher maximum volume than the first generation. SpeechClarity uses a dedicated microphone and voice pickup unit in each earbud to separate the wearer’s voice from background noise during calls.
A new Cinema Mode uses Bose TrueSpatial processing to widen the soundstage for movies, videos and podcasts while keeping dialogue centered. It works with any content source, so it does not depend on a particular streaming service or a special audio mix.
Battery life rises to up to nine hours per charge, with another 19.5 hours stored in the case. The redesigned case can stand upright and finally supports wireless charging. Compatible Android devices can also use Snapdragon Sound and aptX Adaptive for higher-quality audio, lower latency and more reliable connectivity.
What makes the Sport Open Earbuds different?
The $199 Sport model is the more practical choice for exercise. Its soft silicone cuff is designed to stay secure during running and energetic movement, while physical textured buttons control music, calls and volume without relying on touch gestures.
The Sport Open Earbuds carry an IP54 rating for sweat, splashes and dust. Auto Volume adjusts playback as environmental noise changes, which could help when a route moves from a quiet trail to a busy street. Bose rates the earbuds for up to seven hours per charge, and the wireless charging case stores up to 22 additional hours.
Shared connectivity and features
Both models use Bluetooth Core 5.4, support multipoint connections with two devices, and include SBC and AAC codecs. Google Fast Pair simplifies setup with Android phones. Users can configure shortcuts for Spotify Tap and their phone’s native voice assistant through the Bose app.
Bose says a post-launch firmware update will add Google Find Hub, Alexa+ and an Apple Music shortcut. Those features should be treated as planned rather than available on day one. The company has not provided a precise date for that update.
Which model looks like the better value?
The Sport Open Earbuds are likely the better fit for runners and gym users who want a secure open design, IP54 protection and tactile controls without paying flagship pricing. The Ultra model asks $100 more for stronger audio ambitions, longer earbud battery life, Cinema Mode, aptX Adaptive support and a more premium finish.
People who regularly fly, commute on loud trains or want maximum isolation should remember that neither model includes active noise cancellation. Traditional sealed earbuds remain a better match for blocking outside noise. Open-ear earbuds are designed to keep the outside world audible, not make it disappear.
It is also worth waiting for independent testing before assuming the claimed bass, call quality and battery improvements translate perfectly to real use. Bose’s specifications are confirmed, but comfort, sound leakage and fit can vary considerably from one person to another.
Buying options and affiliate disclosure
Disclosure: ReaderSpice may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.
The new models are currently available for preorder through Bose. Readers who want the established predecessor can check the current Bose Ultra Open Earbuds on Amazon while comparing pricing and availability.
Sources
Bose — official Sport Open Earbuds and Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) announcement
Bose — Sport Open Earbuds product page
Bose — Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen) product page
The Verge — Bose’s next open earbuds have more bass, volume and battery life