A new firmware update for the $449 Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 headphones adds support for Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast as beta features. The flagship Ultra earphones are the first from Bose to support audio sharing technology, which the company plans to introduce to more devices soon.
Only a few major manufacturers include Auracast, and only on certain headphones or earbuds, including Sony, JBL earbuds, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and Sennheiser, which also released an Auracast transmitter this year. Some smaller companies, like EarFun, have added support. But Bose is one of the most recognizable names in headphones, so the fact that it’s finally launching is big news for Auracast.
Auracast was officially announced in 2022, but the adoption process has been slow. The technology allows a device to stream Bluetooth audio to any number of supported headphones or speakers at the same time. This could be announcements at the boarding gate while waiting at the airport, a performance at a local venue, or a university class. You can even use Auracast at home to watch TV while the kids sleep or for extra hearing assistance: some Samsung and LG TVs have this feature buried in their menus.
The firmware update, titled 10.12.12, has been rolling out quietly in recent weeks. Alongside Bluetooth LE and Auracast, it adds improved audio over wired USB connections, including balance for gaming audio and chat, and better compatibility for web conferencing apps.
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