Sony is gearing up to release its flagship WH-1000XM6 headphones: new leaks and details

It’s been three years since the release of Sony’s flagship WH-1000XM5 headphones, which are widely regarded as one of the best wireless headphones for most users. However, new evidence suggests that Sony may soon unveil their long-awaited successor, the WH-1000XM6.

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones are now the best wireless headphones for most users.

Regulatory documents hint at design changes

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Sony’s recent filing with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reveals some details about future headphones. The documents mention a possible redesign, including a new hinge design and removable ear cushions.

The documents hint at a possible redesign, including a new hinge design and removable ear cushions.

An interesting point was noticed by The Walkman Blog: a schematic image of the right earcup shows that the earcup can be removed, revealing access to the «nameplate» that lists the device’s model and serial number. This could mean that the ear cushions will be attached without the use of screws, perhaps with magnets or snaps. Its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, had such information hidden under the inner edge of the non-removable ear cushions.

The WH-1000XM5’s name plate could mean that the ear cushions will be screwless, perhaps with magnets or snaps.

Characteristics and changes: what’s known so far

The documentation details do not give a clear picture of the appearance or sound characteristics of the new headphones, but they do point out some technical parameters:

• The Bluetooth version is 5.3, which promises improved connectivity.
• Slightly revised hinge design, though it’s not yet known if the folding design used in the WH-1000XM4 will return.

In addition, the model of the new headphones is labeled YY2984 – very similar to the code of the previous model, YY2954, reinforcing speculation of continuity.

The new headphones are also labeled as YY2984 – which is very similar to the code of the previous model, YY2954, reinforcing speculation of continuity.

When to expect the official announcement

The FCC documents come with a request for interim privacy that expires on July 22, 2025. This suggests that Sony will unveil the headphones before that date. By comparison, the WH-1000XM5 were announced in May 2022, making spring 2025 the likely launch time for the new device.

The WH-1000XM5 was announced in May 2022, making spring 2025 the likely launch date for the new device.

While we still have to wait for official confirmation from Sony, the leaks are already fueling interest in the next generation of their popular headphones.