Bose became the first headphones manufacturer to integrate Google Assistant into a pair of headphones.
The company also introduced a new pair of athletic earphones, the SoundSport ear buds.
The much-rumored QC35 II active noise-canceling headphones retain the same features as the original QuietComfort QC35 model, but a new Action button on the left ear cup connects wearers to Google Assistant. They will be able to select playlists, request specific artists, ask questions, make calls and add events to calendars using voice control. The headphones will also notify and read back incoming calls, messages and reminders.
Also new: Bose’s accompanying Connect App lets wearers choose the level of noise activation (high, low or off). Noise selection can be done on-ear via the Action button, and consumers can indicate in the app whether they want the button to adjust the noise level or activate Google Assistant.
Battery life is listed at 20 hours. The cans are currently available in black or silver at a $349 suggested retail.
Bose’s SoundSport Free wireless ear buds
The SoundSport Free ear buds, meanwhile, join the growing list of wire-free Bluetooth buds geared toward athletes. They employ Bose’s special ear tips, are water resistant, and have a five-hour battery life. A magnetic charging case is included.
When not in the case, the Connect App’s “Find My Buds” feature displays the last time and place they were used.
The SoundSport Free will be available in October at a suggested retail of $249 and a choice of two colors: Triple Black and Midnight Blue/Yellow Citron.
While Bose may have chosen to partner with Google for its headphones, it’s also working with Amazon for multiroom control of its speakers via Alexa.
