I recently got the chance to try out Bose’s new QuietComfort Ultra products at a splashy reveal event in Williamsburg, New York, and right away I was excited to try out these noise-canceling headphones and earbuds in the wild. So far, I’ve had the chance to spend 45 wonderful days with the Bose Ultra earbuds, and they’ve become my new go-to buds for air travel, music, and work calls.
These earbuds were officially released in October for $299 (and they’ve already gotten a Cyber Monday markdown to $249). You can buy these headphones on Amazon (and wherever earbuds are sold), but you’ll have to head to Bose to get the exclusive baby blue color, although I think I look pretty good in the black.
Salt and pepper not included. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable
First impressions: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Out of the box, the new Bose wireless earbuds were very easy to set up and pair with my devices. I haven’t had any issues to date connecting these buds to my iPhone or MacBook, and I don’t think you will either. When the earbuds are in your ears, a robotic voice announces the device you’ve connected to. This is helpful, though I do wish Bose would follow Sonos’s lead and stop using the robot voice. (Sonos uses the smooth, gravely voiceover of Giancarlo Esposito, which is vastly superior.)
My initial testing session with the Bose earbuds was focused on the new Immersive Audio feature, which is Bose’s 3D spatial audio technology. I was excited to get these charged up and explore.
Playing with Bose’s new Immersive Audio technology
So, what is Immersive Audio? It’s Bose’s version of 3D spatial audio. Basically, it’s surround sound, but just for your ears. On any stereo music track, the sound is piped directionally into the left and right buds for a fuller, more lifelike sound. For TV shows and movies with Dolby Atmos and similar soundscapes, the sounds you hear will sound like they’re moving all around you.
Spatial audio is becoming a standard feature in high-end wireless headphones and earbuds, and on its own, it’s not enough to justify upgrading to the Bose earbuds. What sets Bose’s Immersive Audio apart from the competition? When the Immersive mode is activated, the earbuds will recreate the experience of hearing music live or listening to a speaker.
It sounds like your music is right in front of you. As you turn and rotate your head, the sound shifts around you, compensating for your movement. There’s also a secondary movement mode, which maintains this experience when you’re up and walking around. I liked but didn’t love the Immersive Audio. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a really cool feature and it can improve your listening experience, it’s just not my favorite feature of these earbuds.
Activating Immersive Audio in the Bose app. Credit: Screenshot: Bose Music app
The settings available in the Bose app. Credit: Screenshot: Bose Music app
Earbuds with fantastic noise cancellation and comfort
On the other hand (the other ear?), I loved the noise cancellation on these earbuds. I’ve tested noise cancellation on Beats, Apple, and Jabra earbuds, and so far these Bose earbuds have them all beat. Bose’s noise cancelation is so good that I often use these earbuds when I’m not even listening to music.
When I want to take a nap on a plane or focus on my work, I pop in these earbuds and let the noise-canceling cocoon wash over me. Do they offer 100 percent sound dilution? No, but all but the loudest and closest sounds should disappear. On airplanes, they significantly reduced noise, making it much easier to take a nap. I have to warn my partner when I’m putting on these earbuds, otherwise she’ll think I’m giving her the silent treatment.
The earbuds are also extremely comfortable, and that’s partly why the noise cancellation is so good. In addition to the standard ear tips, Bose has also added customizable stability bands. Essentially, this is an extra layer of cushioning for both comfort and a better ear seal. I was able to wear these on a six to seven hour flight with no ear fatigue whatsoever. I would definitely say these are some of the best noise-canceling earbuds for travel, in particular.
If you look closely in the picture below, you can see the stability bands on the side of the buds.
Notice the stability cushions around the middle of the buds. Credit: Bose
What about the overall audio quality?
The audio quality on these earbuds is everything you’d expect from a Bose product. If you don’t know what to expect from a Bose product, let me tell you: These earbuds offer strong bass, clear mid-tones, and a great overall balance. “Stellar” is the word that comes to mind. Typically, I test audio products by listening to Radiohead’s “National Anthem” and Florence and the Machine’s “Between Two Lungs,” and both songs sounded better with Bose.
Are there any downsides to these earbuds?
So far, I’m happy to report that I don’t have any big complaints, and that’s after an extensive testing period. Besides the lack of Giancarlo Esposito, my issues are more like minor quibbles.
First, and this might just be a me problem, but I find it somewhat difficult to remove the buds from the charging case. It’s not like you need to break out a pair of pliers, but I’ve had to do some fumbling when I reach for these in the dark. Second, the charging case has already suffered some wear and tear, which is annoying.
Notice some light wear and tear on the case. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable
Are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Earbuds worth it?
Absolutely. In terms of audio quality, noise cancellation, and battery life, I’m more impressed the longer I use these earbuds. Bose promises the earbuds battery life will last six hours (24 hours with the charging case), and I can verify that claim. A lot of companies exaggerate their battery life, but I haven’t found that to be the case with Bose.
With a full price of $299 (and occasional seasonal discounts to $249), these wireless earbuds are 100 percent worth the investment. I definitely recommend adding them to your gift wish list, and they’re already proving to be one of the top tech gifts of the year.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
