Bose launches USB-C wired earbuds with active noise cancellation for $99

Bose has introduced new wired earbuds that feature active noise cancellation, marking a return to the wired audio market for the company. According to The Verge, the Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds cost $99 and connect directly to devices via a USB-C port, removing the need for separate dongles or wireless pairing processes.

The device distinguishes itself by using the USB-C connection to power its active noise cancellation circuitry. Most wired earbuds rely solely on passive isolation because standard analog connectors like 3.5mm or 4.4mm cannot supply sufficient power for electronic noise reduction. Bose’s previous attempt at wired ANC, the 2013 QuietComfort 20, required a rechargeable battery housed in the cable. The new model draws minimal power from the host device, allowing for a simpler, battery-free design.

Market context for wired audio

Wired earbuds are experiencing a modest resurgence in popularity, with sales rising this year after a five-year decline, according to The Verge. This trend appears linked to younger generations finding wired audio fashionable, similar to the revival of vinyl records and tape decks. Celebrities have been spotted wearing wired earbuds, and dedicated social media accounts track the aesthetic. Users also cite practical benefits, such as longer lifespan due to the absence of degrading batteries and reduced risk of losing individual earbuds.

Competitors and technical limitations

While Bose is not the only manufacturer offering USB-C wired headphones with active noise cancellation, options remain limited. The Verge notes that Belkin sells SoundForm ANC Wired Earbuds for $30, though reports suggest their noise cancellation performance is weak. Audio-Technica released a similar pair in Asia earlier this year. The primary advantage of these devices is simplicity; they require no charging, no Bluetooth pairing, and no companion apps. Users simply plug them into a phone or computer USB-C port for immediate functionality.

What should you do?

Security professionals and IT administrators should note that wired peripherals can still present supply-chain or physical security risks, though they lack the wireless attack surface of Bluetooth devices. When evaluating new hardware like these earbuds, verify that the USB-C connection does not inadvertently enable data transfer if used on sensitive corporate devices. Ensure that devices plugged into corporate computers are from trusted vendors to mitigate potential hardware-based threats.

What to do and how to stay safe: Bose

• Verify that USB-C peripherals used on corporate devices are from trusted manufacturers to reduce supply-chain risks.
• Configure endpoint security policies to restrict data transfer from unauthorized USB devices, even if they are audio-only.
• Monitor for any firmware or driver updates related to USB-C audio devices that could introduce new vulnerabilities.
• Educate users on the physical security risks of leaving wired devices connected to unattended workstations.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Do Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds require charging?

No, the earbuds draw power from the USB-C port of the connected device, so they do not have an internal battery to charge.

Why do most wired earbuds not have active noise cancellation?

Standard analog connectors like 3.5mm do not provide enough power for ANC, so most wired earbuds rely on passive isolation instead.

How much do the new Bose wired earbuds cost?

The Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds are priced at $99, according to The Verge.