Sony is set to debut its next flagship noise-cancelling headphones, the WH-1000XM6, on May 15, with a new leak offering the most detailed look yet at the updated design. A set of images shared by The Walkman Blog reveals a few key refinements—most notably, a reintroduction of folding hinges and a more durable construction, potentially addressing some of the criticisms faced by the previous WH-1000XM5 model.
The leaked images show the WH-1000XM6 in three color variants: black, silver, and a deep midnight blue. The folding design—a notable omission from the XM5—is back, this time with what appears to be a three-part metal hinge. This could improve both portability and long-term durability, especially in response to user complaints about the rigidity and fragility of the XM5’s non-folding frame.
Also visible is a redesigned power button, which now appears rounder and more prominent. While volume controls remain uncertain in the images, it’s speculated that Sony may shift to capacitive controls alongside or near the main power button, keeping with their preference for touch-based interaction.
A few other design details stand out. The mesh-covered microphones could imply improved environmental resistance, though an official IP rating remains unlikely. The 3.5mm headphone jack remains in place—offering wired audio support—but there’s no confirmation yet on whether USB-C audio playback will be added or still omitted.
The ear cushions are expected to be removable, based on prior FCC filings, though the leaked photos do not confirm this in action. Internally, the XM6 will feature Sony’s new QN3 processor, a step up from the QN1 in previous models, offering faster and more adaptive active noise cancelling. The headphones are also said to be powered by a MediaTek MT2833 chip, and use six microphones per earcup, for a total of 12, to further improve noise isolation and voice clarity.
The expected retail price is around $449 USD, a modest increase over the WH-1000XM5’s launch price of $399.
If the upgrades to comfort, portability, and noise cancellation deliver as expected, the WH-1000XM6 may offer a well-rounded evolution for one of the market’s most popular headphone lines.
