Sony’s flagship wireless noise-cancelling headphones are back, and it is better than ever. Three years after the WH-1000XM5s were launched, the company returns with the newest edition of the fan-favourite headphones – the Sony WH-1000XM6.
Three years is a fairly long time gap, but Sony has used that time to include a number of new additions and changes to the WH-1000XM6. Here are the biggest features that their latest headphones have to offer:
New next-gen chip and more microphones
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is one of the key highlights of the XM series, and for the Sony WH-1000XM6, it is set to get even better.
Sony has equipped the headphones with their next-gen HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, which is seven times faster than its predecessor. That speed helps with fine-tuning the 12 microphones found on the headphones, which is an increase from the XM5’s 8 microphones.
With the new processor chip and additional microphones, the headphones adapt ANC more precisely to fit the type of environment you are in. Complemented by the new Adaptive NC Optimiser, it adjusts itself to various forms of external noise and air pressure to provide enhanced noise cancellation for users. The same goes for ambient sound as well. By using the multiple microphones on the headphones, Auto Ambient Sound mode is able to filter in useful background noise like announcements or conversations while sounding natural.
Aside from the upgraded ANC and transparency mode, the addition of two beamforming microphones on the Sony WH-1000XM6 and an AI-optimised noise reduction algorithm better isolates voices from background noise, which provides clearer voice calls for users.
Upgraded sound
Audio performance on the Sony WH-1000XM6 has also been improved. Sony worked in collaboration with industry-leading recording studios (Sterling Sound, Battery Studios and Coast Mastering) in tuning the headphones to provide a better sound experience that conveys the artists’ intended emotion, energy, and detail.
There’s also a specially designed driver unit that adds clarity to the music-listening experience. It’s made of a high-rigidity carbon fibre composite material dome and a uniquely developed voice coil structure that delivers richer vocals and more defined instrument sounds. Additionally, the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 features improved D/A conversion, enabling clearer details, richer bass and a more natural listening experience.
Users’ audio experience can be further tweaked with the 10-band EQ, one of which is a Game EQ that has been developed from Sony’s INZONE range to enhance sound quality for FPS gaming. There’s also Background Music Effect, a feature that simulates playing music as though the speakers are far away—much like how it would be if you were sitting in a cafe.
Folding is back
The previous WH-1000XM5 did away with a folding design when it launched back in 2022; a divisive change amongst fans. But Sony is bringing back that feature for the WH-1000XM6.
Yes, the WH-1000XM6 is able to fold again using advance metal injection for the folding mechanism. And with the return of folding, comes a new compact case for the headphones, which is not only smaller, but also features a magnetic closure for more convenient access.
Availability
The Sony WH-1000XM6 are slated to launch in Singapore from June 2025 at a suggested retail price of S$649, with three colour options available: Black, Platinum Silver and Midnight Blue.
Pre-orders are now open, with launch promotions available:
| Date | Promotion |
| 16 May 2025 to 8 June 2025 | S$150 OFF WH1000XM6 with trade-in of Sony 1000X Wireless Headphones |
| 16 May 2025 to 8 June 2025 | S$100 OFF WH1000XM6 with trade-in of Sony Wireless Headphones |
| 9 June 2025 to 30 June 2025 | S$50 OFF WH1000XM6 with trade-in of Any Wireless Headphones |
Any purchase of the Sony WH-1000XM6 also enables a redemption of a free personalised name tag with iron-on embroidered patch from 14 June – 3 August. Redemptions can be made by registering the product warranty and showing your invoice at Sony Roadshows.
More information about the Sony WH-1000XM6 can be found on Sony’s official website.
As an owner and fan of the OG WH-1000XM3, I’m pretty excited about finally getting to upgrade it after patiently waiting for years. And with the launch in June, we are just a few months away from it.
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Visuals courtesy of Sony Singapore.
