Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) User Manual

Introduction

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) combine advanced noise cancellation with immersive spatial audio for a superior listening experience. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, and maintenance of your headphones.

Image: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones in Driftwood Sand color, showcasing their design.

Package Contents

Ensure all items are present in your package:

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) unit
• USB-C to USB-C cable
• 2.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable
• Safety sheet
• Protective case

Image: The protective case for the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones.

Setup

Charging the Headphones

Before initial use, fully charge your headphones. Connect the provided USB-C to USB-C cable to the charging port on the headphones and to a compatible USB power source. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours. For quick power, a 15-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of playback (2 hours with Immersive Audio enabled).

Power On/Off

To power on or off your headphones, locate the power button on the right earcup. Press and hold the button until you hear an audible prompt or see the indicator light change.

Bluetooth Pairing

The headphones utilize Bluetooth Core 5.4 for a stable wireless connection up to 9 meters (30 feet). To pair with a device:

1. Ensure the headphones are powered on and in pairing mode. (Refer to the safety sheet for specific pairing mode instructions, usually indicated by a blinking light).
2. On your device (smartphone, tablet, computer), navigate to the Bluetooth settings.
3. Select "Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones" from the list of available devices.
4. Once connected, you will hear a confirmation tone or voice prompt.

The headphones support multi-point connection, allowing them to be paired with multiple devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a laptop. This enables seamless switching between audio sources.

Image: Side view of the headphones, highlighting the control buttons and ports.

Operation

Controls

The headphones feature intuitive push-button controls and swipe gestures for various functions:

• Play/Pause & Calls: Use the main buttons on the earcup to play or pause music, and to answer or end calls.
• Volume Adjustment: Swipe gestures on the earcup allow for volume control.
• Automatic Pause/Resume: Removing the headphones will automatically pause your content. Placing them back on will resume playback from where you left off.
• Power Down: To disconnect Bluetooth and power down the headphones when finished, flatten the earcups.

Noise Cancellation Modes

The headphones offer Bose's highest level of active noise cancellation, allowing you to manage your listening environment. There are four distinct modes:

• Quiet Mode: Provides full noise cancellation, ideal for minimizing distractions from airplane roar, office chatter, or other ambient sounds.
• Aware Mode: Allows you to hear your surroundings while still enjoying your audio, useful for situational awareness.
• Immersion Mode: Enhances the audio experience with spatial sound.
• Cinema Mode: Optimized for video content, creating a theater-like audio experience.

Image: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, illustrating their noise-cancelling capability.

Immersive Audio

Immersive Audio technology creates a listening experience where sound appears to unfold in front of you, providing a heightened sense of presence. This feature aims to replicate the feeling of being in a live concert or performance space.

Image: A person experiencing immersive audio with the headphones.

Cinema Mode

The newly integrated Cinema Mode is designed to enhance your video content. It balances background sound and sound effects across a spatial soundstage, delivering a theater-like audio-visual experience regardless of your location.

Image: A person enjoying video content with the headphones in Cinema Mode.

CustomTune Personalization

CustomTune technology automatically analyzes the unique shape of your ears. Based on this analysis, it adapts and optimizes the sound performance of the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, providing a personalized audio experience tailored specifically for you.

Image: A person wearing the headphones, representing the CustomTune personalization feature.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, follow these general maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Gently wipe the earcups and headband with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Storage: When not in use, store your headphones in the provided protective case to prevent scratches and damage.
• Temperature: Avoid exposing the headphones to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high humidity.
• Moisture: Keep the headphones dry. If they come into contact with liquids, wipe them immediately.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter:

• Persistent Voice Prompts: A firmware update in February 2026 introduced unskippable voice prompts upon device connection (e.g., "Connected to XYZ"). Currently, there is no option to disable these announcements.
• Bluetooth Connection Issues: If experiencing unstable Bluetooth connections, ensure your devices are within the 9-meter (30-foot) range. Try turning Bluetooth off and on on both devices, or re-pairing the headphones.
• App Settings with USB Audio: When using a USB audio connection, certain app settings, such as the equalizer, may not be adjustable. Fine-tuning is typically limited to the on-headphone controls (mode switching, volume, shortcut functions).
• Sound Interruption in Noisy Environments: In environments with sudden loud noises or vibrations (e.g., bus bumps, train tracks), the sound may briefly cut out. This behavior can be more noticeable compared to some other noise-cancelling headphones.

Specifications

Image: A comparison table highlighting features of Bose QuietComfort Headphones and QuietComfort Ultra Headphones.

Warranty and Support

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Generation) come with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

For detailed warranty terms, troubleshooting assistance, or to contact customer support, please refer to the safety sheet included in your package or visit the official Bose support website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.