Using Modes | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

What Are Modes?

Modes are audio settings that allow you to customize your listening experience. Most newer Bose earbuds and headphones have a few preset modes that can be changed using the controls on the product, however you can create your own custom modes using the Bose App.

Preset Modes Available for QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Mode	Description
Quiet	Full noise cancellation with Bose-optimized stereo audio. Allows you to block out distractions using the highest level of noise cancellation.
Aware	Full transparency with Bose-optimized stereo audio. Allows you to hear your surroundings while enjoying your audio in stereo.
Immersion	Full noise cancellation with immersive audio set to Motion. Allows you to block out distractions and immerse yourself in lifelike audio.
Cinema	Full noise cancellation with Immersive Audio set to Still. Allows you to experience your video content in a movie-like way by spatializing your audio and balancing background sounds and sound effects.

NOTE: By default, the headphones power on in Quiet mode. You can set the headphones to remember your last mode by clicking the gear icon in the upper right corner of the Modes menu and toggling on Remember My Mode

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change modes?

Changing modes from the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

On the right earcup, press and hold the multi-function button on the right earcup. The voice prompt will announce the mode change.

If you continue to hold the multi-function button it will cycle through all of the available modes. The headphones will only cycle through modes if they have been favorited in the Bose app.

Changing modes from the Bose app

On the product page of the Bose app*, select the Modes option. Select any of the available modes in the menu. That option will turn white indicating it has been selected.

*Please note: your headphones or earbuds must be powered on and connected to the Bose app to access the product page.

How do I create custom modes?

Creating a custom mode in the Bose App

Open the Bose app and connect your product to the app.
Select Modes on the product landing page.
Press the plus button below the mode list
Select a predetermined name for the mode
Set your desired level of Noise Cancellation. The lower the noise cancellation is the more external mics will be active to let in sound. You can also turn off noise cancellation to have no noise cancellation and disable the external mics.
Set your preference for Wind Block (on or off)
Set your preference for Immersive Audio (Off, Still, Motion)
Press Done to save

What is ActiveSense?

ActiveSense™ is dynamic noise cancellation.

It is available for most Bose noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds. It will automatically adjust the level of noise cancellation based on the volume of noise around you so that you can continue to enjoy what you are listening too. It is only available in Aware mode.

To turn ActiveSense™ on or off:

Connect your product to the Bose App
Select Modes on the product landing page
Select Aware mode then press the three dots next to the star icon
Touch the ActiveSense™ toggle to change to on or off.

What is Immersive Audio?

Immersive Audio will enhance and add depth to your audio

Immersive audio takes what you’re hearing out of your headphones and places it in front of you—like you’re always in the sound’s sweet spot. It feels like the audio is coming from outside the headphones, resulting in a more life-like experience. Immersive audio works on any streaming content from any source, taking your audio to new heights with better sound clarity and richer sound quality.

Setting	Description	When to use
Off	Traditional stereo audio that sounds like it's coming from your headphones.	Use when you want a traditional listening experience or want to conserve battery life.
Still	Audio sounds like it's coming from two stereo speakers in front of you that remain in position when you move your head. A few seconds after you stop moving your head, the speakers re-center to where you are facing.	Use for the most realistic and powerful experience. Best used when you are stationary.
Motion	Audio sounds like it's coming from two stereo speakers in front of you that follow your head movements. To access this option, use the Bose app and tap Modes on the main screen.	Use for the more consistent experience. Best used when you're doing activities that require you to frequently turn your head or look down.