Sonos is preparing to release the Ace Ultra, an updated version of its over-ear headphones that targets listeners who want better noise isolation and smarter voice features. The company plans to introduce the device in September, a window confirmed by its recent earnings call but not yet by a specific product launch date. Buyers who currently use the original Ace or are looking for a premium wireless option should watch for these changes, as the new model adds a dedicated voice assistant and refines the physical design for comfort.
FCC filing reveals design tweaks and color options for the upcoming headphones
The Sonos Ace Ultra arrives as an over-ear device that retains the general silhouette of the original Ace while making specific hardware adjustments. FCC filings reveal the model identifier SBVRM052, which confirms the device's existence and regulatory compliance in the United States. The design includes deeper ear cups and a repositioned wear sensor, which likely improves how the headphones detect when they are being worn or removed. This structural shift suggests Sonos is prioritizing fit and sensor accuracy over a complete aesthetic overhaul.
- Design: Over-ear headphones
- Colors: Greige, Shadow Black, Agave, Blush, Sand
- Voice Control: Sonos Voice Control
- Connectivity: USB-C (no 3.5mm jack)
- Previous Model Price: $449
Technical details from the FCC filing and design leaks highlight a focus on audio processing and connectivity. The headphones support Sonos Voice Control, the company's proprietary voice assistant, which allows for hands-free interaction without relying on third-party platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant. Connectivity remains wired-capable through a USB-C port, but Sonos has omitted a native 3.5mm headphone jack. Instead, the package includes a 3.5mm to USB-C cable alongside a standard USB-C charging cable, ensuring users can still connect to legacy audio sources if needed.
Visual customization and potential performance upgrades round out the Ace Ultra's feature set. The device will be available in five distinct colors: Greige, Shadow Black, Agave, Blush, and Sand, giving users more options than the original launch lineup. Leaks also point to a thicker, shorter microphone housing, which industry observers believe could lead to improved active noise cancellation by better isolating the mic from wind and ambient sound. While pricing has not been officially reported, the original Sonos Ace launched at $449, setting a baseline for what consumers might expect.
Sonos has signaled a September launch window during its third-quarter earnings call, aligning the release with its typical fall hardware cycle. The FCC filing provides the first concrete evidence of the Ace Ultra's design and regulatory status, moving the story beyond early design leaks. We looked at the original Sonos Ace earlier while tracking audio accessory trends, and this update appears to refine rather than reinvent the category. The confirmed details include the color options, voice support, and physical design changes, while the exact price and shipping date remain pending official confirmation.
Source: NotebookCheck
