Bose has launched a new soundbar that can pair with the company's open earbuds to deliver a surround sound experience, with the earbuds acting as rear speakers.

It is a novel concept – one we have not encountered before.

Bose has dubbed it 'Personal Surround Sound' and it works with the new company's new Smart Soundbar and soon also the high-end $900 Smart Ultra Soundbar, pending a software update this fall.


An open ear design
Bose explains that the user can still hear the soundbar due to the open-ear design of the earbuds.

- "The unique open-ear design of the Ultra Open Earbuds combined with breakthrough Bose Immersive Audio technology enables the buds to act as rear surround speakers for an individual user while still being able to hear the powerful audio emanating from the soundbar — creating an unparalleled sonic experience of sound all around you," said Bose.


 The soundbar has front-, up- and side-firing speakers while the earbuds serve as rear channels. Photo: Bose

It is part of a new wave of wireless audio solutions designed to make surround, or immersive, audio more accessible to viewers at home. Apple and Sonos already let you enjoy Dolby Atmos with AirPods and Ace.

Bose's solution works only with one pair of earbuds at a time.

 Also read: Review: Sonos Ace for TV audio


The new Bose soundbar
As for the Smart Soundbar, which replaces the Smart Soundbar 600, it features both up- and side-firing units for Dolby Atmos. It will compete with other compact soundbars including the Sonos Beam.


 The new Bose Smart Soundbar. Photo: Bose

Bose confirmed that it features HDMI eARC, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. There is a built-in A.I. Dialogue function to enhance dialogue in movies.

If you prefer a more traditional setup, you can connect it to the existing Bose rear speakers and subwoofers.

The new Bose Smart Soundbar is priced at $500 while the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are priced at $300 and available in various colors.