Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 Get Auracast Beta
A firmware update brings Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast to Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 as beta features, plus better wired USB audio.
Bose has begun rolling out a firmware update that adds Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast to its QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2. Both features arrive in beta, according to theverge.com.
The update, labeled 10.12.12, has been rolling out over the past few weeks. It makes the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 the first Bose headphones to support Auracast, a broadcast standard announced in 2022 that lets one device send Bluetooth audio to multiple supported headphones or speakers at once.
Bose isn't first to the feature. Sony, JBL, Samsung Galaxy Buds and Sennheiser already offer Auracast on select products, and Sennheiser released an Auracast transmitter this year. EarFun has also added support.
The same firmware improves audio over wired USB connections, including balance for gaming audio and chat, and better compatibility with web conferencing apps.
Bose spokesperson Tim Williams said the QC Headphones (Gen 2) should get the beta firmware next, and the company plans to bring Auracast support to more devices soon. The headphones cost $449.
Quick answers
Which Bose headphones support Auracast?
The QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 are the first Bose headphones to support Auracast, added as a beta feature via firmware 10.12.12.
What does the Bose firmware 10.12.12 update add?
It adds Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast in beta, plus improved audio over wired USB connections with balance for gaming audio and chat, and better compatibility for web conferencing apps.
How much do the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Gen 2 cost?
They cost $449.