If you buy something through one of our links, we may earn a commission.
After teasing us with them last week, Sony is making its new WF-1000XM6 earbuds official. Armed with a new look, Google Gemini support, and several upgrades, which include noise-canceling and sound quality. Nearly three years after the XM5s were released, the XM6s arrives at a $30 price increase from $300 to $330.
For starters, the XM6s offer a new ergonomic redesign and matte finish and are designed to better fit the natural curves of your inner ear for all-day comfort. They’re 11% slimmer than the XM5s and have a new ventilation setup to improve airflow that can reduce footstep and chewing noises. The new look also includes larger antennas for better Bluetooth connectivity. Since Google and Sony continue their partnership, they get Gemini and Gemini Live support.
Sony’s latest flagship earbuds are powered by Sony’s HD Noise-Cancelling Processor QN3e and use four mics for improved ANC capabilities. The chip, combined with their noise-isolation tips and Integrated Processor V2 from Sony’s XM6 headphones, ensures the best ANC performance at all times. It also has two mics and a bone conduction sensor on each bud to help remove external noises when taking phone calls.
Sony utilizes the same QN3e and V2 chips combined with a DAC amplifier for improved bass and a higher quality sound with more depth. The XM6 buds also support LE Audio (low-latency Bluetooth audio), Hi-Res Audio, and DSEE Extreme sound profiles, along with 360 Reality Audio compatibility, head tracking, and a 10-band customizable EQ via Sony’s Sound Connect app.
And last but not least, battery life. Sony claims these buds offer up to 8 hours of juice on a single charge and up to 24 hours with their charging case. Alongside wired USB-C charging, these buds support Qi wireless charging as well.
The Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds are available now in Platinum Black or Silver at Amazon and Best Buy. Sony also announced a new Sand Pink color option for the $460 WH-1000XM6 ANC headphones, which are available now at Amazon and Best Buy.
