A new firmware update for the $449 Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 adds support for Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast as beta features. The flagship Ultra headphones are the first from Bose to support audio sharing technology, which the company plans to bring to more devices soon.
Only a few major manufacturers include Auracast, and only on select headphones or earbuds, including Sony, JBL headphones, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and Sennheiser, which also released an Auracast streamer 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 available is great news for Auracast.
Auracast was officially announced back in 2022, but the adoption process has been slow. The technology allows one device to stream Bluetooth audio to any number of compatible headphones or speakers at the same time. This could be for gate announcements while waiting at the airport, a performance at a local venue, or a university lecture. You can even use Auracast at home to watch TV while the kids sleep or for additional listening assistance; Some Samsung and LG TVs have the functionality hidden in their menus.
The firmware update, called 10.12.12, has been quietly rolling out in recent weeks. In addition to Bluetooth LE and Auracast, it adds improved audio over wired USB connections, including balancing for gaming and chat audio, and better support for web conferencing applications.
