How Bose compete with AirPods — and why it’s in more cars than ever, with CEO Lila Snyder

Headphone Tech

Bose is pushing the boundaries of headphone technology with innovations like custom tune technology. Lila Snyder explains that this feature uses advanced computing to map an individual's ear canal, optimizing noise cancellation and audio performance for each user 1. This level of personalization was unimaginable a decade ago due to limited computing power. The company is also actively participating in industry groups like the Bluetooth SIG to influence and create the best experiences for customers 2. Snyder emphasizes the potential of spatial audio, particularly in headphones, as a significant area for future development 3.

   

Car Audio

Bose's involvement in car audio systems is extensive, focusing on creating tailored sound experiences for each vehicle model. Lila Snyder highlights that every Bose sound system is uniquely designed for the specific geometry of a car, ensuring optimal audio quality 4. The company is also innovating with noise cancellation technology in vehicles, particularly electric ones, to manage road noise and enhance the driving experience 5. This requires Bose to be agile, working across various platforms and technologies to integrate their systems effectively 6.

   

Spatial Audio

Spatial audio is a growing trend, and Bose is keen on delivering a compelling experience in this area. Lila Snyder notes that while terms like Dolby Atmos are popular, many consumers don't fully understand them, leading Bose to develop solutions like TrueSpace to enhance non-Atmos content 7. The company aims to support various formats to meet consumer demands, acknowledging that spatial audio might be polarizing but holds potential for immersive experiences 8. Snyder believes that as creators produce content specifically for spatial audio, its appeal will grow, offering exciting new possibilities for listeners.