Sony WF1000XM6 Launch Date Confirmed for February 12

On February 12, 2023 at 8 AM PT (9:30 PM IST), Sony will announce the latest true wireless earbuds, the WF-1000XM6. The event will serve as a follow-up to the WF-1000XM5 model that launched in July of 2020, but very little information has been released by Sony about the product so far. Several leaks and teaser videos have indicated that improvements in both the design and sound quality are expected as well as other minor upgrades to the overall performance of the product.

Launch window and expectations

The WF-1000XM6 will be launched approximately 3 years from the time of the original WF-1000XM5 model. The official teaser shows a design that aligns with a recent leak, with colors said to include black and silver, and possibly a Sandpink shade. The device is likely to feature a more compact build and a slimmer charging case than the XM5.

Leaks suggest the XM6 will be Sony's first true wireless earbud to include DSEE Ultimate, powered by a new MediaTek MT2855 chip, enabling real time upscaling and potentially better ANC and overall sound quality. The leaks also point to improvements in battery life and general performance, alongside a possible price increase over the XM5. The model is expected to carry an IPX4 water resistance rating.

Specifications and pricing

A Thai retailer had recently listed the WF-1000XM6 at THB 11,990. Prices are also expected to be around EUR 299.99 in Europe and $329.99 in the US.

Notably, the current WF-1000XM5 include an 8.4 mm Dynamic Driver X, backed by the Integrated Processor V2 and QN2e chips for improved noise cancellation. They support SBC, AAC, LDAC and LC3 codecs, along with DSEE Extreme upscaling, Ambient Sound Mode and enhanced call quality via bone conduction sensors and deep neural networks processing. Connectivity on the XM5 includes Bluetooth 5.3, Google Fast Pair, multipoint, head tracking and 360 Reality Audio, plus an IPX4 rating and compatible Headphones Connect app. Battery life is rated at up to eight hours with ANC (twelve without), with the case delivering a total of around 24 hours and supporting wireless and fast charging. Each earbud weighs about 5.9 g, with the case at roughly 39 g overall.

India launch for the XM6 has not been confirmed and could follow the global debut by a few months.