Key details about Sony's next-generation wireless headphones, the WH-1000XM6, have leaked online ahead of their official announcement. A product page briefly listed on Amazon Spain has revealed detailed information about the product, including its specifications, release date, and pricing.
According to the leak, the WH-1000XM6 will feature Sony’s latest noise-cancelling processor QN3, which is said to be seven times faster than the QN1 used in the existing WH-1000XM5 and provides real-time adaptive noise cancellation based on a total of 12 microphones. It also includes an ‘adaptive noise-cancelling optimizer’ that automatically adjusts noise depending on the surrounding environment, air pressure, and wearing condition.
The sound quality has been further enhanced. Wireless Hi-Res audio transmission via LDAC and real-time restoration of compressed audio sources via Edge-AI-based DSEE Extreme function. The frequency response range is from 4Hz to 40,000Hz, and a wide sound range is covered through the optimized carbon fiber dome speaker. It supports various codecs such as SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3, and the 6-microphone beamforming system with AI-based wind noise reduction function provides clearer sound quality during voice calls.
There are also changes in terms of design. The foldable structure that disappeared from the WH-1000XM5 has returned, and the hinge is made of metal, which seems to have improved durability. The ear cups have no seams, and the microphone hole is protected by a mesh cover, which raises the possibility of improved waterproof performance. It is released in three colors: black, platinum silver, and midnight blue, and weighs 254g.
Convenience features include touch controls, wearing detection, smart ambient sound mode, and a mode that allows you to take calls without taking the headset off. It supports both charging via the USB-C port and a 3.5mm wired connection, and can play for up to 30 hours on a full charge. It can also be used for up to an hour with a 3-minute charge, which is useful when you’re in a hurry. It also supports multipoint connectivity based on Bluetooth 5.3, and offers customization features via the Sony Sound Connect app.
The product contents include the headphone body, a carrying case, a USB-C charging cable, and a 3.5mm audio cable with a length of 1.2m. The case has been changed to a magnetic closure method, and the internal pocket has also been improved.
The release date is expected to be May 15, 2025, and the price in the US will be $449.99. In Europe, it is expected to be priced around $429-$439 excluding VAT.
