The Bose Frames Tempo may be exactly what Bose audio glasses needed: the original Bose Frames, which debuted in 2018, was cool but never really penetrated the mainstream.

But the Bose Frames Tempo model, announced today (September 10) along with two other new Bose Frames models (Tenor and Soprano), pivots the glasses toward sports and fitness. This is reminiscent of how the Apple Watch didn't really become a hot item until Apple recalibrated wearables for health and workouts.

I loved my original Bose Frames because they were headphone-free and allowed me (and only me) to be enveloped in a little bubble of sound coming from the arms of my glasses.

All three of the new Bose Frames also have improved audio pickup. Bose replaced one microphone system with an array that can block out noise, including wind and other people's conversations, that is picked up when you speak.

Each new Frames also features a new EQ system that optimizes volume and delivers distortion-free sound quality. Bose also added a gesture control that allows the user to raise or lower the volume by moving a finger back and forth over the right temple.

The downside is that they all cost $250, $50 more than the $199 Bose Frames; Bose has yet to introduce its own degree lens option. Third parties have tried (but always failed in my testing).

Don't expect any more promotion for the voice-only Bose AR app; a Bose spokesperson told the Protocol that "Bose AR has not turned out to be what we envisioned."

The Bose Frames Tempo moves things forward by using TR90, a more durable material that "withstands extreme temperatures and tough training." Bose also added its own spring hinges, temple tips and nose pads for added stability. The company markets Frames Tempo for runners who face all types of terrain, from flat roads to rocky terrain.

The Frames Tempo features a 22mm full-range driver, so there is no need to worry about being able to hear music in hectic environments. According to Bose, it is loud enough to "cycle at 25 miles per hour," but not so loud that it blocks out important sounds such as traffic and the voices of people around you.

The Bose Frames Tempo comes with polycarbonate lenses with a visible light transmittance (VLT) of 12%. Bose's other three optional lenses include Road Orange (20% VLT to reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water and snow), Trail Blue (28% VLT for bright sun situations that require increased contrast and clarity), and Twilight Yellow (77% VLT for low-dusk (77% VLT) for use in low-light conditions at dusk.

Bose rates the Frames Tempo's battery life at up to 8 hours, and it charges via a USB-C cable.

Then there are the more style-first Bose Frames Tenor and Soprano. Featuring Bose's proprietary Open Ear Audio technology for improved sound, Bose claims that these models have improved bass response and "more depth and detail."

When I wrote my review of the Bose Frames, I marveled at the ability to listen to my favorite tunes and podcasts while ordering lunch; I didn't think the Bose Frames needed better or stronger bass, but I'm going to try this new version and see how much better it is. I look forward to trying this new version and seeing how much better it is.

The Tenor and Soprano Frames have a battery life of 5.5 hours and (like the original Bose Frames) charge with a custom pogo pin charger. These glasses have a uniquely durable, scratch- and shatter-resistant design; the Frames Tenor is available with mirror blue or silver lenses, and the Frames Soprano with rose gold or purple fade.