By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Design and Comfort
- OpenAudio Technology and Bose Immersive Audio
- Controls and Features
- Battery Life and Charging
- Conclusion
Introduction
Bose has expanded its wearable audio lineup with the innovative Ultra Open Earbuds. These earbuds feature a unique open-ear design intended to enhance environmental awareness without sacrificing audio quality. This approach utilizes air conduction and advanced signal processing to create a more immersive and comfortable listening experience
Design and Comfort
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds depart significantly from traditional earbud designs. Instead of sitting inside the ear canal, they wrap gently around the outside of the lower ear, resting on the antitragus. A thin, flexible silicone coating connects the speaker unit to a barrel-shaped module housing the electronics and battery. This unique design ensures superior comfort, enabling all-day use without the typical ear fatigue caused by in-ear or over-ear models. The sleek, polished build quality and metallic finish also give the earbuds a stylish, premium look.
OpenAudio Technology and Bose Immersive Audio
Bose's proprietary OpenAudio technology uses air conduction to deliver sound directly to the user's inner ear while minimizing sound leakage. This technique, combined with advanced signal processing and optimized placement of the transducer and vent, enables the Ultra Open Earbuds to produce a balanced sound with surprisingly rich bass – often lacking in open-ear designs. Additionally, Bose Immersive Audio further enhances the spatial perception of the sound, simulating a broader soundscape for a more realistic and enjoyable listening experience.
Controls and Features
Physical buttons along the top of the module allow users to play, pause, skip tracks, control volume, switch between stereo and immersive audio modes, and even answer phone calls. The Bose Music app further expands the customization and control options, offering EQ adjustments and an automatic volume control feature that dynamically adjusts audio levels in response to changing background noise. Additionally, the earbuds include an accelerometer to facilitate Bose Immersive Audio's advanced head-tracking capabilities.
Battery Life and Charging
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds offer an impressive 7.5 hours of battery life on a single charge (4.5 hours with Immersive Audio). The charging case extends playback time by 19.5 additional hours (12 hours with Immersive Audio). A 10-minute quick charge provides 2 hours of playtime, and the earbuds and case conveniently recharge via a USB-C connection.
Conclusion
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds demonstrate the company's continued innovation in wearable audio. The stylish design prioritizes comfort while delivering balanced audio and unique immersive features. Their open-ear nature promotes user safety and awareness. At $299, these earbuds target those willing to invest in a premium audio experience that integrates seamlessly with daily life.