Setup & Pairing: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) User Manual

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Introduction

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) represent the latest advancement in premium over-ear audio technology, designed for audiophiles, frequent travelers, and remote professionals seeking exceptional sound quality combined with world-class noise cancellation. These headphones blend Bose’s renowned comfort with cutting-edge features such as lossless USB-C audio, adaptive noise cancellation, and immersive Cinema Mode, offering an unparalleled listening experience whether you're on a noisy flight, working from home, or enjoying entertainment at home.

Boasting a sleek, refined design with polished metal accents, the 2nd Gen QuietComfort Ultra headphones deliver crystal-clear, low-latency sound thanks to advanced audio codecs,, including Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint connectivity, allowing seamless switching between two devices. With up to 24 hours of battery life and smart features like automatic start-up and Bluetooth standby, these headphones ensure uninterrupted use throughout the day.

Priced in the premium range (typically around $400-$450), they are widely available through authorized retailers and Bose’s official website. The headphones cater to users valuing immersive audio, exceptional noise reduction, and versatile connectivity in a comfortable, durable package.

Specifications of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

• Audio Quality: Lossless USB-C audio support at 16-bit/44.1kHz or 48kHz for high-fidelity playback
• Noise Cancellation: Adaptive noise cancellation with improved algorithms and ActiveSense technology featuring 8 microphones
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint support; codecs: SBC, AAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive
• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours in Quiet or Aware modes; fast charging via USB-C (approx. 3 hours full charge)
• Controls: Multi-function button, volume strip on earcup, customizable via the Bose app
• Additional Features: Cinema Mode for spatial audio in videos, immersive audio with Still and Motion settings, smart on-head detection, automatic standby with low-energy deep sleep
• Comfort: Protein leather ear cushions, lightweight design optimized for long wear
• Dimensions & Weight: Around-ear circumaural design; weight optimized for comfort (exact specs in user manual)
• Comparison: Compared to the previous Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless model, the 2nd Gen features enhanced ANC precision, USB-C lossless audio, extended battery life, and Cinema Mode

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

CONTENTS
Confirm that the following parts are included:

BOSE APP

The Bose app lets you set up and control the headphones from any device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
Using the app, you can manage Bluetooth connections, manage headphone settings, adjust the audio, choose your voice prompt language, and get any future updates and new features made available by Bose.

NOTE: If you’ve already downloaded the Bose app for another Bose product, you can add the headphones from the main screen.

DOWNLOAD THE BOSE APP

1. On your device, download the Bose app.

   

2. Follow the app instructions.

HEADPHONE CONTROLS

The headphone controls are located on the back of the right earcup.

MEDIA PLAYBACK AND VOLUME
The Multi-function button controls media playback. The volume strip controls the volume.

PHONE CALLS
The Multi-function button controls phone calls.
There are four microphones on the front of the headphones for phone calls   — two on the left earcup and two on the right earcup.

USE YOUR SHORTCUT

Touch and hold the volume strip.

WIRED CONNECTIONS

CONNECT THE AUX AUDIO CABLE
Use the 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm audio cable to listen to audio from your source device when a Bluetooth connection isn’t available.

NOTES:  

• The headphones must be powered on for you to use the audio cable. If the battery is depleted, use the USB cable to connect to an external power source, then power on the headphones (see page 33).
• Phone calls and media playback controls are disabled and must be controlled on your source device. 
• Bluetooth connection and microphone voice pick-up on the earcups are disabled.
• For the best experience, a Bluetooth connection is recommended.

1. Connect the cable to the 2.5 mm port on the left earcup.

   

2. Connect the other end of the cable to the 3.5 mm port on your source device.

USB AUDIO
The headphones support USB-C audio. To play audio from a source device onnected as an external power source,  connect your headphones to your device using the USB-C cable. 
If the headphone battery is depleted, you can use the USB-C cable to connect to an external power source and still use the headphones while charging.

NOTES:  

• The headphones will charge while they’re turned on.
• To continue listening to audio on your source device when the headphone battery is depleted and a Bluetooth connection isn’t available, connect the USB-C cable or connect the USB-C cable and the audio cable (see page 33).

1. Connect the USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the left earcup.

   

2. Connect the other end to a USB-C power source such as a computer or wall charger. 
3. Power on the headphones (see page 14).

BATTERY

CHARGE THE HEADPHONES

1. Connect the USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the left earcup.

2. Connect the other end to a USB-C power source such as a computer or wall charger.

   

The headphones begin charging, and the status light glows solid amber. When the headphones are fully charged, the status light glows solid white. 

Charging time
Allow up to 3 hours to fully charge the headphones.1 
NOTE: Charging is slower when the headphones are in use.

Playback time
A full charge powers the headphones for up to:

• 30 hours with noise cancellation set to On and immersive audio set to Off.
• 23 hours with noise cancellation and immersive audio set to On.
• 45 hours with noise cancellation and immersive audio set to Off.. Off 2

When the headphone battery level is low, a 15-minute charge powers the headphones for up to 2.5 hours with noise cancellation set to On and immersive audio set to Off.

Hear the battery level.
Each time you power on the headphones, a voice prompt announces the battery level. When the headphone battery is low, you hear “Battery low.”3

NOTE: To visually check the battery, see the status light located on the left earcup. For more information, see page 38.

TIP: You can also hear the battery level using a shortcut. The battery level must be set as a shortcut using the Bose app (see page 20).

Connect Bose Products

CONNECT TO A BOSE SMART SPEAKER OR SOUNDBAR
Using SimpleSync technology, you can connect the headphones to a  Bose Smart  Soundbar or Bose Smart Speaker for a personal listening experience. 

Benefits

• Use independent volume controls on each product to lower or mute your Bose Smart Soundbar while keeping the headphones as loud as you like. 
• Hear your music clearly from the next room by connecting the headphones to your Bose Smart Speaker. 

NOTE: SimpleSync technology has a Bluetooth range of up to 30 ft (9 m). Walls and construction materials can affect reception. 

Compatible products

You can connect the headphones to any Bose Smart Speaker or  Bose Smart Soundbar. 

Popular compatible products include:

• Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar
• Bose Smart Soundbar
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker/Bose Portable Home Speaker

Setup Guide for Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

1. Charge the Headphones: Use the included USB-C cable; a full charge takes about 3 hours for up to 24 hours of playback.
2. Power On: Press and hold the Bluetooth/Power button on the right earcup until the status light turns on.
3. Pairing: Enable Bluetooth on your device and select "Bose QuietComfort Ultra" from the available devices list. Multipoint pairing allows simultaneous connection to two devices.
4. Configure via Bose App: Download the Bose app to customize noise cancellation levels, EQ settings, shortcut buttons, and enable features like Cinema Mode and Immersive Audio.
5. Wired Connection: Use the 2.5mm AUX port or USB-C cable for lossless digital audio; note the built-in power is required even in wired mode.
6. Troubleshooting Tips: If pairing issues occur, restart the headphones and device; ensure firmware is updated via the Bose app; reset the headphones by holding the power and volume buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds.
7. Safety: Avoid exposing headphones to extreme temperatures or moisture; use volume levels that do not cause hearing damage; keep headphones clean and store them safely when not in use.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

STORE THE HEADPHONES
The earcups rotate for easy, convenient storage. Place the headphones flat into the case.

1. Place your hands around each earcup.

   

2. Rotate both earcups inward so they lie flat.

   

3. Slide the earcups up into the headband.

   

4. Fold the left earcup up toward the headband and place the headphones in the case. 

   

UPDATE THE HEADPHONES

• The headphones begin updating automatically when connected to the Bose app and an update is available. Follow the app instructions.
• You can also update the headphones using the Bose updater website. On your computer, visit: bbtu.Btu.Bose.ose.comcom and follow the on-screen instructions.

CLEAN THE HEADPHONES
The headphones may require periodic cleaning. If the headband or other exterior surfaces need to be cleaned, gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth. 

• Use only a water-dampened cloth. Don’t use cleaning products. Don’t allow any moisture to enter the headphones through the ports or earcups.
• Don’t force any dirt or debris into the ports. Don’t blow air into or vacuum the ports or the interior of the earcups.

REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Replacement parts and accessories can be ordered through Bose customer service.

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
The serial number is located inside the left earcup under the scrim. The scrim is the inner screen that covers and protects the components inside the earcup. 

1. On the left earcup, gently pull one area of the cushion away from the earcup until all six tabs around the inside rim of the earcup release.

   

2. Grab the scrim at the top edge and gently peel it away to view the serial number.

   

   CAUTION: Be careful not to press down on or remove any other components inside the earcup, as this could damage the headphones.

3. Secure the scrim back in place.

   

4. Align the six tabs on the cushion mounting flange with the six slots on the earcup, then press the cushion until all six tabs snap into each slot. You will hear and feel a snap when the cushion is properly in place.

   

Troubleshooting Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

• Problem: The Headphones are not pairing with the device
  Solution: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled; restart the headphones and device; update the Bose app and firmware.
• Problem: No sound or distorted audio when using USB-C
  Solution: Confirm device supports lossless USB-C audio; check cable connection; restart headphones.
• Problem: The Microphone is not working during calls
  Solution: Microphone functionality may be limited in wired mode; switch to Bluetooth for calls; check app permissions.
• Error Codes: Refer to the Bose app notifications for firmware or connectivity errors and perform recommended updates.
• Preventive Measures: Keep firmware updated; avoid extreme environmental conditions; use original charging accessories.
• Warranty & Support: Bose offers a limited warranty typically covering 1 year; contact Bose customer service via the official website or authorized retailers for repairs and assistance.

LIMITED WARRANTY

• YA limited warranty covers your headphones. Visit our website for details of the limited warranty.
• To register your product, visit the instruction pages. Failure to register will not affect your limited warranty rights.

Pros & Cons of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Pros

• Exceptional Noise Cancellation: Advanced adaptive ANC blocks a broad range of noises with precision.
• Lossless USB-C Audio: Provides crystal-clear, high-fidelity sound with low latency,, ideal for music and gaming.
• Comfortable for Long Wear: Lightweight design with plush protein leather cushions.
• Multipoint Bluetooth Connectivity: Seamlessly connect two devices simultaneously for versatile use.
• Immersive Audio Features: Cinema Mode enhances video dialogue clarity,  ty,, and spatial audio settings enrich music experience.

Cons

• Premium Price Point: Higher cost than some competitors may deter budget-conscious buyers.
• Mic Limitations in Wired Mode: The Microphone does not function when connected via cable.
• Battery Life: Though improved, 24 hours may be less than some rivals offering 30+ hours.
• Complexity of Features: Some users may find app customization overwhelming initially.

Customer Reviews of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Users consistently praise the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) for their outstanding noise cancellation and comfort during extended wear, giving them an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Many highlight the enhanced sound clarity provided by lossless USB-C connectivity and appreciate the seamless multipoint Bluetooth function. The addition of Cinema Mode is often mentioned as a favorite feature for video streaming.

Common complaints include the non-functional microphone when wired and the premium price, which some feel is steep compared to alternatives. A few users report initial pairing glitches that were resolved with firmware updates via the Bose app. Overall, the headphones receive strong purchase recommendations for users seeking top-tier noise cancellation and audio fidelity in a versatile, comfortable package.