Sony WH-1000XM6 Offers AI-Powered Mic Array and New Headband Design for Unmatched Comfort and Clear Calls
Sony has introduced the WH-1000XM6, a bold upgrade in its wireless audio range. This launch marks the return of a foldable design, paired with major enhancements in noise cancellation and audio clarity. In a market filled with premium options, this move sets a new bar for over-ear headphones.
Even More Travel-Friendly with Foldable Hinges
In contrast to its predecessor, the WH-1000XM6 restores the foldable compact hinge, a feature many missed. The headset becomes more travel-friendly with the hinge, which enables storage convenience. But this design change is only the beginning. Sony has rebuilt the experience from the inside out.
Faster Noise Processing with QN3 Chip
At the core of the upgrade is Sony’s latest HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3. This chip processes data seven times faster than the XM5’s QN1 chip. Paired with 12 built-in microphones, the WH-1000XM6 handles environmental noise more effectively. Wind noise also sees a clear cutback, thanks to fine mesh protection on mic edges.
Studio-Level Audio with New Components
Audio tuning got a serious lift with help from top studio engineers. The 30mm drivers now use a high-rigidity carbon fiber composite dome. A new voice coil structure delivers richer bass and more lifelike vocals. Sony's digital signal processing has also been revamped with a next-gen noise shaper for smoother, more accurate playback.
Enhanced Codec and Spatial Audio Support
Codec support stays wide, including SBC, AAC, LDAC, and Bluetooth LE Audio. Spatial sound gets a push through Sony’s 360 Reality Audio Upmix. The new Cinema mode turns basic stereo into room-filling surround sound.
AI-Powered Microphones Boost Call Quality
Call quality also steps up. Six beamforming microphones now work with an AI model trained on 500 million voice samples. The result is sharper voice pickup and less background interference during conversations.
Solid Battery and Smarter Design Features
Battery life holds steady—30 hours with active noise cancellation and up to 40 without. Charging while listening is now supported. A new headband design offers better comfort for longer sessions. It’s wider, flatter, and easier to adjust. The outer shell has a fingerprint-resistant finish, while touch controls on the right earcup can be turned off via the app.
Color Options and Pricing
The WH-1000XM6 arrives in black, silver, and a new midnight blue finish. Pricing starts at $449. While that’s $50 more than the XM5, the leap in technology and user comfort may justify the increase for many users.
A Top Contender for 2025's Best Foldable Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM6 positions itself solidly at the top of foldable headphones in 2025. The combination of polished sound, more intelligent noise cancellation, and a foldable design puts it ahead in the wireless audio game.