Hello all,
It seems with the additional comments on this topic that a refresher on the design may be helpful in understanding why these work the way they do. The SoundSport Free headphones use a method called TWS (True Wireless Stereo) to allow a truly wireless AND stereo sound experience. To accomplish this we use primary/secondary architecture in which the right earbud is the primary and relays the signal via Bluetooth to the secondary (left) earbud. This technology application truly shines when listening to recorded audio as the algorithms used adjust for the delay in transmission between the earbuds to keep the stereo left/right channels synchronized. Live audio (i.e. phone calls) is a very different prospect.
We recognize that Bluetooth is a common and useful technology for voice calling over mobile devices. We included the functionality to give the SoundSport Free maximum utility. TWS is very adept at synchronizing static, or recorded, audio. Live audio with all the variability of natural language makes lag a very real, and very distracting, outcome. To reduce the negative impact on our customers, yet retain this high demand feature, we limit call audio to the right earbud. This is very common for single Bluetooth communication earbuds. The Soundsport Wireless headphones, by comparison, are linked via cable and do not have to rely on a synchronized Bluetooth signal for stereo audio whether recorded or live. There was never a version of the SoundSport Free firmware with stereo sound on voice calls. It is a limitation of current technology and you can be assured that when we have made the necessary breakthroughs to allow live and truly wireless voice communication, in full stereo, Bose will apply our experience to help our customers reach their fullest human potential.
Best Regards,
Greg - Community Support
