> Why Bose doesn't let you pair them using the standard system is beyond me.

The app collects data on what music you listen to and sends it back to Bose. So obviously they want to encourage you to install and use the app.

Last I checked, at least. Also, there are _two_ Bose apps now, and which one you use depends on which Bose QuietComfort headphones you have. That I have no explanation for.