Sony has released the WH-1000XM6, the latest model in its popular 1000X series of wireless active noise-canceling (ANC) headphones. The new version features several key upgrades in performance and usability, and also brings back the foldable design, a feature many users missed in the previous WH-1000XM5.
The WH-1000XM6 is powered by Sony’s new QN3 HD noise-canceling processor, which is claimed to be seven times faster than the previous model. It uses 12 onboard microphones and a new Adaptive NC Optimizer to adjust noise cancellation in real time based on external sound and air pressure. Users can also manually adjust ANC settings through the app.
Audio performance is improved with a new, custom-built carbon fiber composite driver unit designed for higher rigidity and better sound clarity. This new driver helps improve vocal richness and instrument detail. The headphones support High-Resolution Audio and High-Resolution Audio Wireless, Edge-AI, and DSEE Extreme, which upscales compressed audio in real time.
Call quality also gets a boost through an AI-based beamforming system that uses six of the 12 microphones to focus on the user’s voice while cutting background noise. A new Scene-based Listening feature also uses AI to adjust ANC based on the user’s surroundings and location. It is compatible with popular music platforms including Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify.
Battery life remains at up to 30 hours with ANC on, and a quick three-minute charge gives users up to three hours of listening time. The headphones support LE (low energy) and multi-point connectivity, allowing them to connect to multiple devices at once.
The WH-1000XM6 headphones are available in ‘Black,’ ‘Platinum Silver,’ and ‘Midnight Blue’ colors. It retails for £399.99 / $449.99, available via Sony.
