Bose announced today that it has acquired the consumer audio company Skullcandy. While the two firms have historically been competitors, Skullcandy recently collaborated with its new owner to integrate Bose audio technologies, such as head-tracking spatial audio and active noise cancellation (ANC), into products like the Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC headphones and Method 360 ANC earbuds.
Although specific financial details regarding the deal were not disclosed, a news release confirmed that Bose intends to operate Skullcandy as a separate brand within its premium consumer audio business. Skullcandy will continue to be based in Park City, Utah, the location where it was founded.
The acquisition is intended to help Bose expand the reach of its audio technologies to a broader audience. “For more than 60 years, Bose has been committed to delivering incredible audio experiences however and wherever people choose to listen. As we work to reach even more people, we’re expanding how we do that, not only through Bose products, but through technology partnerships and a growing portfolio of brands,” Bose CEO Lila Snyder says.
Skullcandy, which was founded in 2003, is known for its distinct product designs and long-standing relationships with board sports athletes. According to the release, these attributes will “present new ways for Bose to meaningfully connect with consumers where it has less presence today.” While Bose products are frequently used by travelers and professionals, the addition of Skullcandy is expected to help the company appeal to consumers who may not prioritize the effectiveness of ANC technology.
This acquisition follows a series of recent expansions for Bose. In 2024, the company acquired high-end audio brand McIntosh and its subsidiary Sonus faber, as well as StreamUnlimited Engineering and Firelight Technologies. Additionally, Bose announced the creation of an in-house content studio, Bose Studios, and its own record label, Bose Records, last June.
