Sony has released a new update for the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones and the WF-1000XM5 TWS earphones. This brings Google’s Gemini Live interactive AI closer to you and the option to share audio with compatible headphones via Fast Pair. The latter could allow Fast Pair-enabled headphones to listen to the same audio simultaneously. Now, while the WH-1000XM6 is a 2026 model, the WF-1000XM5 is a few years old at this point, as it launched in 2023. But Sony appears to be gearing up to launch its successor now, as the WF-1000XM6 has been spotted by the Walkman Blog on the US FCC certification listing. Let’s break down both these news:
The FCC listing, first spotted by Walkman Blog, reveals the WF-1000XM6 (model number YY2985) was tested between July and August 2025. While Sony has not disclosed the full specifications, the filing confirms that the earbuds will use a 3.85V internal battery and feature a monopole antenna design similar to the WF-1000XM5. The antenna gain is slightly improved at -2.5 dBi compared to -3 dBi on the XM5. This could mean that the antenna gain is slightly improved at -2.5 dBi compared to -3 dBi on the XM5.
The test software, identified as ‘Earbuds_BT_test,’ points to a new Mediatek chipset, likely the MT2855, a variation of the Airoha AB1595 used in Sony’s LinkBuds earphones. This chip integrates on-device AI, suggesting support for DSEE Ultimate, Sony’s Edge-AI-based audio upscaling engine. DSEE Ultimate enhances compressed audio in real time by restoring lost details and dynamic range, which could make the XM6 the first Sony earbuds to offer this feature. Even the Sony WH-1000XM6 has DSEE Extreme only.
The antenna and SiP module are manufactured by Goertek Inc, the same company behind the XM5’s components. Based on FCC confidentiality timelines, the filing’s embargo lifts on March 31, 2026, but Sony could announce the WF-1000XM6 earlier.
Also Read: Spectera, Spatial Audio and AI: Sennheiser on its 80-year journey and road ahead in India
In the meantime, Sony has started rolling out firmware version 6.0.0 for the WF-1000XM5 and version 3.0.0 for the WH-1000XM6.
The update brings Gemini Live, an interactive version of Google’s Gemini AI that allows more conversational voice interactions.
It also adds Audio Sharing via Fast Pair, letting multiple Fast Pair-enabled headphones listen to the same audio source simultaneously. This will be similar to Apple’s shared listening mode.
Other improvements include Bluetooth LE Audio support for better latency and head-tracking performance, and new Find Hub capabilities for the WF-1000XM5. Users can now locate individual earbuds and disable Find Hub without the charging case.
The updates are available via the Sony Sound Connect app.
For current Sony users, these updates bring smarter AI interactions and more flexible listening options. For those waiting to upgrade, the WF-1000XM6 could improve sound processing and power efficiency. But we will have to wait for more leaks or official revelations to learn how big an update this would be.
Stay tuned to Digit.in for similar audio-related news.
Also Read: Sony WH-1000XM6 first impressions: notable upgrades right away
