Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd gen) review: Impactful upgrades to a familiar formula

Here is a 183-word summary of the key points from the article: Bose's new second-generation QuietComfort Ultra headphones ($449) build on the success of the previous model with several notable upgrades. The active noise cancellation (ANC) has been further refined to better adapt to sudden spikes in environmental noise. The headphones also now offer an "Immersive Cinema Mode" that enhances dialogue clarity while maintaining a wide, enveloping soundstage. Battery life has been significantly improved, with up to 30 hours with ANC on and 45 hours with it off. Bose also implemented smart power management features, allowing the headphones to automatically enter low-power mode when not in use. Lossless audio over USB-C is another welcomed addition. The comfortable design and class-leading ANC performance remain, though the premium price tag and somewhat flashy aesthetic changes may deter some. Overall, Bose has delivered impactful upgrades that cement the QuietComfort Ultra as one of the best noise-canceling headphones currently available.