WH-1000XM6, which is expected to be the next model of Sony’s popular WH-1000X series headphones, was brought to the agenda with the application made to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). After the WH-1000XM5 was introduced about three years ago, details about the new model attract the attention of technology enthusiasts. According to the information contained in the FCC documents, there are some innovations and changes in the design of the WH-1000XM6. The most striking feature highlighted in these documents is the removable ear cushions and redesigned hinge structure. Sony has apparently adopted an approach that will further improve the user experience.
The FCC application includes a diagram of the right side of the headset, and this diagram contains important clues. By lifting the ear cushion, a nameplate containing the headphone model number and serial number can be accessed. Descriptions in the documents suggest that the ear cushions are placed with the help of magnets or clips instead of screws. This may enable users to replace ear cushions more easily. The previous model WH-1000XM5 did not feature this type of removable design; FCC information was hidden inside the ear cushion.
What changes in the design of the new model?
Another striking detail on the design side is the difference in the hinge structure. However, this change does not mean that the headset will return to a foldable design like the WH-1000XM4 model. It is estimated that these innovations in hinge design are aimed at increasing user comfort and durability. In addition, FCC documents also reveal that Bluetooth 5.3 technology will be used in the headset. This can offer benefits such as a more stable connection and lower energy consumption.
The model number of WH-1000XM6 is stated as “YY2984”. This number is very similar to the model number “YY2954” of the WH-1000XM5. So, it becomes clear that these headphones are a continuation of the same product line. However, the documents state that the model tested was labeled as a “prototype”. This means that some details may change before the product is released.
Another point that draws attention in the documents is some technical details about the power and antenna features of the headset. Still, there is no clear information about the audio performance of the headset or the general appearance of its design. However, innovations such as removable ear cushions and new hinge structure show that Sony will take a more innovative approach with this model.
According to FCC documents, the short-term privacy request will expire on July 22, 2025. This suggests that Sony plans to officially introduce the headset before this date. Considering that the WH-1000XM5 was launched in May 2022, it seems likely that the new model will be introduced in the spring of 2024. In particular, it is known that FCC applications are usually made several months before product launches.
The WH-1000XM series is known especially for its high-quality active noise canceling technology and audio performance. It is already a matter of curiosity what technological innovations the WH-1000XM6, which is expected to be the new member of this series, will come with compared to its predecessor. On the other hand, details such as removable ear cushions can increase the lifespan of the product and make the user experience more flexible.
In light of all this information, it is predicted that WH-1000XM6 will be a remarkable model in the field of wearable technology. However, before Sony’s official launch, all the details about the product may not be clear. Still, FCC documents indicate that the launch of this model is not far off.