Bose is doubling down on open earbuds with two new releases: the Ultra Open (2nd Gen) and the Sport Open Earbuds, according to ZDNET. The move targets listeners who want to stay aware of their environment while enjoying audio, a segment that has grown steadily in recent years.
WIRED's 2026 roundup of best open earbuds includes models from Shokz, Bose, Soundcore, and others, noting that the top picks let users hear the world and their music equally. Both sources agree that open earbuds are now a mainstream option, not a niche accessory.
Where they differ is in scope: WIRED evaluates a wide range of brands and picks favorites across price points, while ZDNET focuses specifically on Bose's new lineup and its refreshed design. For business readers, the takeaway is that competition is intensifying, with Bose pushing to lead a category that reviewers say is still maturing.