Sony has officially launched its latest flagship headphones, the WH-1000XM6, on May 15, 2025. Priced at $449.99, these over-ear wireless headphones promise significant upgrades over their predecessor, the WH-1000XM5. While the design retains the sleek aesthetic of the previous model, the WH-1000XM6 introduces notable enhancements in noise cancellation, sound quality, and user experience.
Design and Build
The WH-1000XM6 headphones maintain the minimalist design of the WH-1000XM5 but bring back a foldable mechanism, a feature absent in the previous model. This addition makes the headphones more portable and easier to store. The earcups are now removable, allowing for easier replacement and maintenance. The headband has been widened for improved comfort during extended use. The carrying case has also been redesigned with a magnetic clasp for more convenient closure.
Noise Cancellation
A standout feature of the WH-1000XM6 is the upgraded noise cancellation system. Equipped with the new QN3 HD processor, which is seven times faster than its predecessor, the headphones utilize 12 microphones to deliver industry-leading active noise cancellation. This enhancement allows for better isolation from ambient noise, providing an immersive listening experience. Sony claims that this is the best noise cancellation technology available in the market today.
Sound Quality
The WH-1000XM6 headphones feature new 30mm drivers that, in conjunction with the QN3 processor, deliver clearer vocals and richer details. Sony collaborated with Grammy-nominated mastering engineers from Sterling Sound to calibrate the headphones across multiple music genres, ensuring an emotive and compelling listening experience. The headphones also support Sony’s 360 Reality Audio upmix, transforming stereo sound sources into an immersive spatial audio experience.
Connectivity and Features
The WH-1000XM6 headphones support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and efficient wireless connection. They also feature multipoint connectivity, allowing users to connect to two devices simultaneously. The headphones are compatible with Sony’s Sound Connect app, offering features like adaptive sound control, LDAC, DSEE Extreme, extensive EQ options, and Cinema mode for immersive audio.
Call Quality
Sony has enhanced the call quality of the WH-1000XM6 by incorporating six microphones per earcup, compared to four in the previous model. Three of these microphones utilize AI beamforming to isolate the user’s voice from the surrounding environment, ensuring clear and detailed calls.
Battery Life
The WH-1000XM6 headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled and up to 40 hours without. They also support quick charging, providing up to 5 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. While the battery life remains similar to the previous model, the addition of the foldable design and improved noise cancellation technology may offset the need for longer battery life.
Pricing and Availability
The WH-1000XM6 headphones are available for purchase at $449.99. They are offered in three color options: Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver. Shipping began on May 16, 2025, with availability in select regions. The price point places the WH-1000XM6 in direct competition with other premium noise-canceling headphones in the market.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones represent a significant advancement in the company’s flagship noise-canceling lineup. With enhanced noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and thoughtful design updates, they offer a compelling option for audiophiles and frequent travelers alike. While the price increase may be a consideration for some, the added features and improvements make the WH-1000XM6 a worthy successor to the WH-1000XM5.
