Sony WH-1000XM6 Leaks Emerge: Foldable Design, Upgraded Chip, and Price Hike Expected
The highly anticipated Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are generating buzz as leaks reveal key specifications and design changes ahead of their expected mid-May launch. Will these new headphones live up to the hype and justify the rumored price increase?
Recent leaks, including an Amazon Spain listing and a Dealabs report, are painting a detailed picture of Sony's upcoming flagship headphones. One of the most exciting revelations is the return of the foldable design, a feature missed by many users of the WH-1000XM5. 
Internally, the WH-1000XM6 is expected to feature a new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 and 12 microphones, promising improved noise cancellation capabilities. The revamped Adaptive NC Optimizer will dynamically adjust noise cancellation based on your surroundings. Audio upgrades include 30mm carbon fiber dome drivers, Hi-Res and LDAC support, and a customizable 10-band EQ. Call quality should also see a boost thanks to a six-microphone beamforming array with AI-based wind noise reduction.
While battery life is expected to remain the same at up to 30 hours, a quick charge feature will provide 1 hour of playback from just 3 minutes of charging. The headphones are listed at 254g and are rumored to come in Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
The leaks indicate a potential price increase, with the WH-1000XM6 launching in France at €449.99, a €30 increase over the WH-1000XM5. Pricing in other regions is expected to vary. The Amazon Spain listing, which has since been taken down, suggested a €470 price point including tax.
The return to a foldable design is a significant change. As noted in reviews of the XM5, the lack of this feature made them less convenient for travel. The reinforced hinges, suggested by Reddit users, will hopefully address durability concerns with the previous model. The increased number of microphones and the new QN3 chip point towards substantial improvements in noise cancellation.
The launch window is expected between May 14 and 16, with some sources hinting at pre-orders going live on May 17 and deliveries starting from May 27 in France. However, potential availability might vary by country.
Are the rumored upgrades enough to justify the expected price increase? Will the return of the foldable design be a game-changer for portability? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
