A new processor and redesigned drivers power the Sony WF-1000XM6, which claims 25 per cent stronger noise reduction.
Sony WF-1000XM6 Wireless Earbuds
Sony has unveiled its latest flagship true wireless earbuds, and the headline claim is massive, given that it is a benchmark against its previous, market-leading buds, the WF-1000XM5.
The new Sony WF-1000XM6 are said to deliver 25 per cent better noise cancelling, marking the biggest generational leap in the series to date.
Are we now in an era where, as travellers, we will have earbuds that can perform as well as over-ear headphones, and block out the cabin noises just as much?
Features Sony WF-1000XM6
Noise-cancelling remains the defining feature of the 1000X line, and with the WF-1000XM6, Sony says it has redesigned the internal architecture to deliver stronger, more precise noise suppression across different environments.
At the centre of the upgrade is the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, working alongside Sony’s Integrated Processor V2. According to Sony, this combination enables faster and more precise processing of ambient noise data.
The company says the new processor architecture improves real-time analysis, enabling the earbuds to respond more effectively to changing environments.
Sound performance
Sony confirms that the WF-1000XM6 now uses four microphones, up from three in the previous generation. These microphones are controlled by the QN3e processor and are part of Sony’s Multi Noise Sensor technology. Sony explains that this expanded microphone system is a key reason behind the leap in noise-cancelling performance.
The earbuds also incorporate Sony’s Adaptive NC Optimiser. This system automatically adjusts noise-cancelling performance based on your environmental conditions, including atmospheric pressure and the surrounding noise levels. The aim is to achieve more consistent isolation, whether indoors, outdoors, or in transit.
Sound quality is another focus as Sony says the WF-1000XM6 features a newly developed 8.4mm driver unit designed to deliver improved clarity and detail across the frequency range. The company pairs this with 32-bit audio signal processing and an enhanced digital-to-analogue conversion stage to refine playback performance.
Codec support
Support for high-resolution audio remains, including LDAC codec compatibility. Sony also confirms DSEE Extreme upscaling technology is included to enhance compressed digital music files in real time.
There will also be a notable improvement in call quality as the WF-1000XM6 uses AI-powered beamforming alongside bone conduction sensors to isolate the wearer’s voice more effectively. The four-microphone array works in tandem with this system to reduce background noise during calls.
Despite the claimed performance gains, battery life remains on par with the legacy WF-1000XM5 buds. Sony states the WF-1000XM6 offers up to eight hours of listening on a single charge. With the charging case, total listening time extends to up to 24 hours.
Quick charging is also supported, and a full charge takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Most notably, the WF-1000XM6 elevates performance in the mid-to-high frequency range. Mid-to-high frequency noise is common in everyday environments, and the WF-1000XM6 delivers remarkable quietness, even in challenging situations such as traveling in vehicles or spending time in cafés.
Sony
Sony says the earbuds’ smaller form factor is more ergonomic and designed to improve fit during extended use. The housing has been engineered to balance acoustic performance with comfort, while maintaining water resistance for everyday wear.
Specifications Sony WF-1000XM6
| Features | Sony WF-1000XM6 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions |
Charging case: 61×41×26mm Earbuds: TBC |
| Weight |
Earbuds: Approx. 6.5g Charging case: Approx. 47 g |
| Colour Options | Black Platinum Silver |
| Driver Unit | 8.4 mm |
| Features |
Active Noise Cancelling DSEE Extreme Ambient Sound Mode Quick Attention Multipoint connection |
| Battery & Charging |
Max. 8 hrs (NC ON) / 12 hrs (NC OFF) Up to 24 hrs with charging case USB charge / Wireless charge (with case) |
| Connectivity |
Bluetooth 5.3 Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 Range: 10 m |
| Waterproof | Yes (IPX4) |
| In the Box |
WF-1000XM6 Earbuds Charging Case Noise Isolation Earbuds Tips Uswer Guide USB Cable |
| Website | sony.co.uk |
Specifications Sony WF-1000XM6
The Sony WF-1000XM6 wireless earbuds are priced at $329/£249 and are available to order now at sony.com and Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Sony WF-1000XM6 adds the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, an upgraded microphone setup and redesigned drivers, with Sony claiming 25 per cent stronger noise reduction versus WF-1000XM5.
Sony says the Sony WF-1000XM6 delivers 25 per cent better noise cancelling than the WF-1000XM5, helped by the new QN3e processor and four microphones.
The Sony WF-1000XM6 offers up to 8 hours of listening on a single charge, and up to 24 hours in total with the charging case, according to Sony.
Yes. Sony says the Sony WF-1000XM6 supports LDAC for high-resolution wireless audio and includes DSEE Extreme to enhance compressed music files.
Sony says the Sony WF-1000XM6 improves call clarity using AI beamforming and a bone conduction sensor, alongside its microphone array to reduce background noise.
The Sony WF-1000XM6 has an IPX4 water resistance rating, meaning it should handle sweat and light rain for everyday use.
The Sony WF-1000XM6 costs $329 USD and £259 GBP, and is available to order now.
