Bose Returns to Wired Audio With New $99 Noise Cancelling USB-C Earbuds
- Bose is returning to wired earbuds for the first time in more than a decade.
- The hardware draws power directly from the connected host device.
- At the heart of the device is Bose’s QuietControl technology.
Bose is returning to wired earbuds for the first time in more than a decade. By utilizing a direct USB-C connection, these earbuds deliver active noise cancellation and lossless audio without the need for an internal power source.
Engineering a Battery-Free Experience
The hardware draws power directly from the connected host device. This streamlined USB-C interface facilitates 24-bit/48kHz playback, ensuring high-fidelity, lossless audio. Bose has opted for a 4.2-foot cable equipped with an in-line remote, allowing users to manage volume, playback, calls, and listening modes manually. Designed for durability and fit, the earbuds hold an IPX4 water-resistance rating and arrive with three sizes of silicone tips and removable stability wings. They are available in Black, White Smoke, and a limited-edition Dewdrop Mint.
QuietControl and Digital Signal Processing
At the heart of the device is Bose’s QuietControl technology. A four-microphone array—two per earbud—constantly monitors ambient noise to filter out distractions. Users can toggle between three modes: Quiet Mode for full noise cancellation, Aware Mode for environmental transparency, and an ANC Off setting for traditional listening. Because the connection is hardwired, the system offers low-latency performance essential for gaming, video production, and content creation, supported by the company’s proprietary SoundDesign digital signal processing.
A Strategic Cultural Shift
The move marks a departure from the wireless ecosystem. Bose is betting that a “plug-and-play” simplicity will resonate with younger listeners who are fueling a resurgence in wired hardware.
“Wired earbuds are experiencing a cultural renaissance, and when we decided to bring them back, we knew we had to make them even better than before,” said Raza Haider, president of Bose Premium Consumer Audio.
Preorder and Shipping Details
Priced at $99, the earbuds are currently available for preorder through the official Bose website. Shipments are scheduled to commence on October 15, 2026. Each purchase includes the earbuds, three sizes of silicone tips, stability wings, and a dedicated zippered carrying case.