Bose QuietComfort Headphones - Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Manual

WHAT'S IN THE BOX

CONTENTS
Confirm that the following parts are included:

NOTE: If any part of your product appears to be missing or damaged, don't use it.
Visit support.Bose.com/QC for troubleshooting articles, videos, and product repair or replacement.

BOSE MUSIC APP

The Bose Music app lets you set up and control the headphones from any mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
Using the app, you can manage Bluetooth connections, manage headphone settings, choose your voice prompt language, and access new features through updates.
NOTE: If you've already created a Bose Music account for another Bose product, add the headphones to your existing account.

DOWNLOAD THE BOSE MUSIC APP

1. On your mobile device, download the Bose Music app.
   

2. Follow the app instructions.

ADD THE HEADPHONES TO AN EXISTING ACCOUNT

To add your Bose QuietComfort Headphones, open the Bose Music app and add your headphones.

HEADPHONE CONTROLS

The headphone controls are located on the back of the earcups.

POWER ON

Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right .
A voice prompt announces the battery level, and the status light glows according to the current charge level.

POWER OFF

Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the left.

NOTE: When the headphones are powered off, noise cancellation is disabled.

Auto-off

Auto-off conserves the headphone battery when they aren't in use.
To enable and customize the auto-off feature, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.

MEDIA PLAYBACK AND VOLUME

The Multi-function button and volume buttons control media playback and volume.

NOTES:

• To quickly increase the volume, press and hold +.
• To quickly decrease the volume, press and hold -.

PHONE CALLS

The Multi-function button controls phone calls. The Action button enables you to mute the audio while on a call.

NOISE CANCELLATION

The Action button allows you to quickly and easily switch between noise cancelling modes.

MOBILE DEVICE VOICE CONTROL

You can use the headphones to access voice control on your mobile device.
Press and hold the Multi-function button.

NOTE: You can't access voice control while on a call.

SHORTCUTS

A shortcut enables you to quickly and easily access one of the following functions:

• Access Spotify
• Access battery level

NOTE: By default, accessing battery level is enabled.

USE YOUR SHORTCUT

Press and hold the Action button.

CHANGE OR DISABLE YOUR SHORTCUT

To change or disable your shortcut, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the main screen.

NOISE CANCELLATION

Noise cancelling reduces unwanted noise, providing a clearer, more lifelike audio performance.
You can choose between two pre-configured noise cancelling modes — Quiet or Aware — or create up to two of your own custom modes.
Choose your noise cancelling mode based on your listening p references and environment.

NOISE CANCELLING MODES

NOTE: By default, the headphones power on in Quiet Mode. To set the headphones to power on with the last mode used, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.

CHANGE THE NOISE CANCELLING MODE

Press the Action button.
A voice prompt announces the selected mode.

TIP: You can also change the mode using the Bose Music app. To access this option, tap Modes on the main screen.

NOISE CANCELLATION WHILE ON A CALL

When you make or receive a call, the headphones remain at the current noise cancellation setting and self voice is activated. Self voice helps you hear yourself speak more naturally.
To adjust noise cancellation while on a call, change the mode (see "Change the noise cancelling mode").
NOTE: To adjust self voice, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.

USE NOISE CANCELLATION ONLY

You can use noise cancellation only, without audio or interruptions from phone calls.

1. Do one of the following:
   • Disconnect your mobile device.
   • Turn the Bluetooth feature off on your mobile device.
2. Press the Action button change the mode.

NOTE: To reconnect your mobile device, select the headphones from the Bluetooth list on your device.

BLUETOOTH CONNECTIONS

You can store up to eight devices in the headphone device list, and the headphones can be actively connected to two devices at a time (multi-point connection). You can play audio from only one device at a time.
NOTE: For the best experience, use the Bose Music app to set up and connect your mobile device.

CONNECT USING THE BOSE MUSIC APP

To connect the headphones and manage Bluetooth settings using the Bose Music app.

CONNECT USING THE BLUETOOTH MENU ON YOUR MOBILE DEVICE

1. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold for 3 seconds until you hear "Ready to connect" and the status light blinks blue.
   
2. On your device, enable the Bluetooth feature.
   NOTE: The Bluetooth feature is usually found in the Settings menu.
3. Select your headphones from the device list.
   NOTE: Look for the name you entered for your headphones in the Bose Music app. If you didn't name your headphones, the default name appears.
   
   Once connected, you hear "Connected to <device name>", and the status light glows solid blue for 10 seconds.

DISCONNECT A MOBILE DEVICE

Use the Bose Music app to disconnect your mobile device.
TIP: You can also use Bluetooth settings to disconnect your device. Disabling the Bluetooth feature disconnects all other devices.

RECONNECT A MOBILE DEVICE

When powered on, the headphones try to reconnect with the two most recently-connected devices.
NOTES:

• The device must be within range (30 ft or 9 m) and powered on.
• Make sure the Bluetooth feature is enabled on your mobile device.

CONNECT ANOTHER MOBILE DEVICE

The headphones can b e actively connected to two devices at a time (multi-point connection).
To connect another device, download the Bose Music app or use the Bluetooth menu on your mobile device.
NOTES:

• You can only play audio from one device at a time.
• To manage a multi-point connection, use the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.
• Disabling a multi-point connection disconnects the second connected device.

IDENTIFY CONNECTED MOBILE DEVICES

Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and release to hear which device is currently connected.

SWITCH BETWEEN TWO CONNECTED MOBILE DEVICES

1. Pause audio on your first mobile device.
2. Play audio on your second mobile device.
   NOTES:
   • Your headphones receive phone calls from both devices, regardless of which device is playing audio.
   • You can also switch between two devices using the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.

RECONNECT A PREVIOUSLY CONNECTED DEVICE

1. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and release to hear which device is connected.
2. Within 2 seconds, slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and release again to connect to the next device in the headphone device list.
3. Repeat until you hear the correct device name. You hear a tone that indicates when the device is connected.
4. Play audio on the connected mobile device.

NOTE: If two devices are already connected to the headphones, the newly- connected device replaces the second device that was previously connected.

CLEAR THE HEADPHONE DEVICE LIST

1. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold for 15 seconds until you hear "Bluetooth device list cleared. Ready to connect."
2. Delete your headphones from the Bluetooth list on your mobile device.
   All devices are cleared and the headphones are ready to connect.

BATTERY

CHARGE THE HEADPHONES

1. Connect the small end of the USB cable into the USB-C port on the right earcup.
2. Connect the other end into a USB-A power source such as a computer or wall charger.
   
   The headphones begin charging, and the status light blinks white for 10 seconds. When the headphones are fully charged, the status light glows solid white.

NOTE: The headphones don't play and aren't available in the Bose Music app while charging.

Charging time

Allow up to 2.5 hours to fully charge the headphones.
A full charge powers the headphones for up to 24 hours.

Hear the battery level

Each time you power on the headphones, a voice prompt announces the battery level. When the headphone battery is low, you hear "Battery low."
NOTE: To visually check the battery, see the status light located on the right earcup.

HEADPHONE STATUS

The status light is located on the right earcup.

BLUETOOTH STATUS

Shows the Bluetooth connection status.

BATTERY STATUS

Shows the battery level.

TIP: You can also check the battery level using the Bose Music app.

CHARGING STATUS

Shows the charging status.

UPDATE AND ERROR STATUS

Shows the update or error status.

WIRED CONNECTION

CONNECT THE AUDIO CABLE AND MICROPHONE

The 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm audio cable has a built-in microphone. You can use the audio cable for phone calls or listening to audio on your source device when a Bluetooth connection isn't available, the headphone battery is depleted, or the headphones are powered off.
NOTES:

• When the audio cable is connected, Bluetooth connection and the microphone voice pick-up on the earcups are disabled.
• When the audio cable is connected and the headphone battery is depleted or the headphones are powered off, the headphone controls are disabled. Phone calls and media playback must be controlled on your source device.
• For the best experience, a Bluetooth connection is recommended.

1. Connect the cable into the 2.5 mm port on the left earcup.
   
2. Connect the other end of the cable into the 3.5 mm port on your source device.

CONNECT BOSE PRODUCTS

CONNECT A BOSE SMART SPEAKER OR SOUNDBAR

Using SimpleSync technology, you can connect the headphones to a Bose Smart Soundbar or Bose Smart Speaker for a personal listening experience.

Benefits

• Use independent volume controls on each product to lower or mute your Bose Smart Soundbar while keeping the headphones as loud as you like.
• Hear your music clearly from the next room by connecting the headphones to your Bose Smart Speaker.

NOTE: SimpleSync technology has a Bluetooth range of up to 30 ft (9 m). Walls and construction materials can affect reception.

Compatible products

You can connect the headphones to any Bose Smart Speaker or Bose Smart Soundbar.
Popular compatible products include:

• Bose Smart Soundbar 900
• Bose Smart Soundbar 700/Bose Soundbar 700
• Bose Smart Soundbar 600
• Bose Smart Speaker 500/Bose Home Speaker 500
• Bose Home Speaker 300
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker/Bose Portable Home Speaker

New products are added periodically. For a complete list and more information, visit: support.Bose.com/Groups

Connect using the Bose Music app

1. On the headphones, slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold for 3 seconds until you hear "Ready to connect another device" and the status light blinks blue.
2. Use the Bose Music app to connect the headphones to a compatible Bose product. For more information, visit: support.Bose.com/Groups

NOTES:

• Make sure that the headphones are within 30 ft (9 m) of your soundbar or speaker.
• You can connect the headphones to only one product at a time.

RECONNECT TO A BOSE SMART SPEAKER OR SOUNDBAR

Power on the headphones.
The headphones try to connect to the two most recently-connected Bluetooth devices, including your soundbar or speaker.
NOTES:

• Your soundbar or speaker must be within range (30 ft or 9 m) and powered on.
• If the headphones don't reconnect, see "Headphones don't reconnect to a previously-connected Bose Smart Soundbar or Speaker".

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

STORE THE HEADPHONES

The earcups rotate for easy, convenient storage. Place the headphones flat into the case.

1. Rotate both earcups inward so they lay flat.
   
2. Fold the left earcup up toward the headband.
   
3. Place the headphones flat in the case.
   

NOTES:

• Make sure to power off the headphones when not in use.
• Before storing the headphones for more than a few months, make sure the battery is fully charged.

CLEAN THE HEADPHONES

Wipe the outside surfaces with a soft, dry cloth.
Don't allow moisture to get inside the earcups.

REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

Replacement parts and accessories can be ordered through Bose customer service.
Visit: support.Bose.com/QC

LIMITED WARRANTY

Your headphones are covered by a limited warranty. Visit our website at worldwide.Bose.com/Warranty for details of the limited warranty.
To register your product, visit worldwide.Bose.com/ProductRegistration for instructions. Failure to register will not affect your limited warranty rights.

SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION

The serial number is located inside the right earcup under the scrim. The scrim is the inner screen that covers and protects the components inside the earcup.
To view the serial number, grab the scrim at the top edge and gently peel it away.

Be careful not to press down on or remove any other components inside the earcup as this could damage the headphones.

TROUBLESHOOTING

TRY THESE SOLUTIONS FIRST

If you experience problems with your headphones:

• Charge the headphones.
• Power on the headphones.
• Check the headphones status light.
• Make sure your mobile device supports Bluetooth connections.
• Move your mobile device closer to the headphones (30 ft or 9 m) and away from any interference or obstructions.
• Increase the volume on your headphones, mobile device, and music app.
• Connect another mobile device.

If you couldn't resolve your issue, see the table below to identify symptoms and solutions to common problems. You can also access troubleshooting articles, videos, and other resources at: support.Bose.com/QC
If you are unable to resolve your issue, contact Bose customer service.
Visit: worldwide.Bose.com/contact

OTHER SOLUTIONS

SYMPTOM	SOLUTION
Headphones don't power on	Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right .
Headphones don't connect with mobile device	Power off the headphones, then power on again. Disconnect the audio cable. Disconnect the USB charging cable. On your mobile device: Disable the Bluetooth feature and then re-enable. Delete your Bose QuietComfort Headphones from the Bluetooth list on your device. Connect again. Connect using the Bluetooth menu on your mobile device. Clear the headphones device list. Connect again. Visit support.Bose.com/QC to see how-to videos.
Headphones don't respond during app setup	Uninstall the Bose Music app on your mobile device. Reinstall the app. Make sure you're using the Bose Music app for setup. Make sure you have given the Bose Music app access to Bluetooth connections in your mobile device Settings menu. Make sure the Bluetooth feature is on in your mobile device Settings menu.
Bose Music app can't find headphones	Uninstall the Bose Music app on your mobile device. Reinstall the app. Make sure you have given the Bose Music app access to Bluetooth connections in your mobile device Settings menu. Connect using the Bluetooth menu on your mobile device.
Bose Music app doesn't work on mobile device	Make sure your mobile device is compatible with the Bose Music app and meets minimum system requirements. For more information, refer to the app store on your mobile device. Uninstall the Bose Music app on your mobile device. Reinstall the app.
Headphones don't charge	Make sure both ends of the USB cable are securely connected into the ports. Try a different USB-A wall charger, USB cable, or AC (mains) power source. If your headphones have been exposed to high or low temperatures, let the headphones return to room temperature and try charging again.
No sound	Make sure the volume is turned up. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and release to hear the connected device. Make sure you are using the correct device. Press play on your mobile device to make sure audio is playing. Play audio from a different application or music service. Play audio from content stored directly on your device. If two mobile devices are connected, pause your other device first. Restart your mobile device. Reset the headphones.
Poor sound quality	If in a windy environment, create a custom mode with wind blocking enabled in the Bose Music app. To access this option, tap Modes on the main screen. Make sure you're using the Bose Music app for setup. Play audio from a different application or music service. Play audio from content stored directly on your device. If two mobile devices are connected, disconnect the second device. Turn off any audio enhancement features on the device or music app. Visit support.Bose.com/QC to see how-to videos. Reset the headphones.
No sound from a device connected by the audio cable	Make sure both ends of the audio cable are securely connected into the ports. Press play on your source device to make sure audio is playing. Play audio from a different application or music service. Play audio from content stored directly on your source device. Increase the volume on the headphones, then increase the volume on your source device. Restart your source device.
Poor sound quality from a device connected by audio cable	Make sure both ends of the audio cable are securely connected into the ports. Restart your source device.
Audio cable microphone doesn't work	Make sure your mobile device is compatible with the audio cable (CTIA standard pin connection). Refer to your source device owner's guide.
Action button doesn't change the noise cancelling mode	If the audio cable is connected, disconnect the cable. Use the Bose Music app to change the mode. To access this option, tap Modes on the main screen.
Headphones don't respond	Reset the headphones.
Poor noise cancellation	Check the mode.
Difficulty hearing a caller while on a phone call	Increase the volume using your mobile device. Try a different mode.
Voice prompt language isn't correct	Change the voice prompt language using the Bose Music app. You can access this option from the Settings menu.
Not receiving call notifications	Make sure you have given the headphones access to your contacts in your mobile device Bluetooth menu.
Headphones don't connect to a Bose Smart Soundbar or Speaker	Make sure you're connecting using the Bose Music app. Make sure you're connecting to a compatible Bose product. For a complete list visit: support.Bose.com/Groups Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold for 3 seconds until you hear "Ready to connect another device" and the Bluetooth light blinks blue. Make sure that the headphones are within 30 ft (9 m) of your soundbar or speaker.
Headphones don't reconnect to a previously-connected Bose Smart Soundbar or Speaker	Reconnect a previously-connected device.
Delayed audio when connected to a Bose Smart Soundbar or Speaker	Download the Bose Music app and run available software updates.

RESET THE HEADPHONES

If the headphones are unresponsive, you can reset them.
Resetting the headphones resets the product controls and reboots the headphones. It doesn't clear any device settings.

1. Connect the small end of the USB cable into the USB-C port on the left earcup.
   
2. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right . At the same time, connect the other end into a USB-A power source such as a computer or wall charger.
   
   When the reset is complete, the status light glows according to the current charge level.

NOTE: If you're unable to resolve your issue, additional troubleshooting and support is available at: support.Bose.com/QC

RESTORE THE HEADPHONES TO FACTORY SETTINGS

A restore to factory settings can clear all settings and return the headphones to their original out-of-box state. After, the headphones can be configured as if they were being set up for the first time.
Restoring to factory settings is only recommended if you are having issues with the headphones, or you have been instructed to do so by Bose customer service.

1. Remove the headphones from the Bluetooth list on your device.
2. Remove the headphones from your Bose account using the Bose Music app.
   NOTE: For more information about how to remove the headphones from your Bose account using the Bose Music app, visit: support.Bose.com/QC
3. Slide the Power/Bluetooth switch to the right and hold. At the same time, press and hold the Action button for 30 seconds.
   
   The status light blinks white. After 30 seconds, the status light blinks amber to indicate factory settings are being restored (2 to 3 seconds).
   When the reset is complete, the status light slowly blinks blue. The headphones are now in their original out-of-box state.

NOTE: If you're unable to resolve your issue, additional troubleshooting and support is available at: support.Bose.com/QC