It’s been three years since Sony dropped the WH-1000XM5—noise-cancelling royalty in the world of over-ears. But the reign might soon be handed over. Whispers from FCC filings, data mine nuggets, and the ever-spinning rumour mill point towards a fresh contender stepping up – the Sony WH-1000XM6.
ALSO SEE: Sony WH-1000XM5 review
Spotted first by Walkman Blog, Sony’s next-gen noise-cancellers have made their way through the FCC, under the model number AK8YY2984. The “AK8” is the standard grantee code, while the rest points to the product itself. Labelled as a Wireless Noise Canceling Stereo Headset, it’s a pretty clear nod that we’re looking at the WH-1000XM6—or whatever Sony decides to call the follow-up to its over-ear cans. It’s also flagged as being manufactured in Malaysia.