Sony WH-1000XM6: The Innovative ANC Headphones Missing a Key Feature

On July 4, 2025, Sony unveiled its highly anticipated WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones, touted for their cutting-edge active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities and enhanced sound quality. However, despite these advancements, the latest model has drawn criticism for omitting a feature that many users consider essential: audio playback over USB-C.

The WH-1000XM6 builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, which has dominated the headphone market since its release. Noteworthy improvements include a faster processing unit, hardware advancements, and a more user-friendly companion app, the Sony Sound Connect app. This model is designed to deliver an impressive audio experience, making it a strong contender amidst a competitive landscape of premium headphones.

In reviewing the WH-1000XM6, it is important to evaluate both its strengths and weaknesses. According to Hollin Jones, a technology reviewer for MusicTech, the headphones feature a remarkable soundstage and exceptional battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC activated (40 hours without), which matches the performance of the WH-1000XM5. Charging is facilitated via USB-A to C cable, which has been met with some confusion as USB-C is now a standard in most electronic devices (Jones, MusicTech, July 2025).

The design of the WH-1000XM6 remains largely similar to its predecessor, though it introduces foldable ear cups, which enhance portability. The headphones weigh just 255 grams, ensuring comfort for extended listening sessions. Furthermore, the model is equipped with an impressive twelve microphones, enhancing its noise-cancellation capabilities and allowing for features such as speak-to-silence and automatic adjustment based on the user's environment.

Despite these advancements, the absence of audio playback over USB-C has raised eyebrows in the audio community. Competitors like Master & Dynamic MW75 and Bowers & Wilkins Px8 offer this feature and boast uncompressed digital audio at high sample rates. This omission could impact the WH-1000XM6's appeal among audiophiles looking for high-fidelity listening options (Jones, MusicTech, July 2025).

The headphones support Bluetooth 5.3 and various audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, and LDAC, ensuring versatility for different audio setups. However, the requirement to download the companion app for full functionality has been noted as a drawback, as it may complicate the user experience (Jones, MusicTech, July 2025).

Industry experts highlight that while the WH-1000XM6 excels in sound quality and noise cancellation, the lack of USB-C audio might deter potential buyers. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a professor of Audio Engineering at Berklee College of Music, emphasizes that "the ability to connect directly via USB-C has become a significant selling point for many consumers, particularly in a premium segment where users expect the latest technology" (Johnson, Berklee College of Music, 2025).

The WH-1000XM6 competes with other high-end headphones, including Apple’s AirPods Max and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, which offer similar functionalities but with different strengths and weaknesses. The AirPods Max, for instance, integrates seamlessly with Apple products, while the QuietComfort Ultra is often praised for its comfort and sound quality (Jones, MusicTech, July 2025).

In conclusion, while the Sony WH-1000XM6 embodies technological advancements in ANC and sound reproduction, the missing USB-C audio feature poses a significant question regarding its competitiveness in the premium headphone market. As consumers increasingly prioritize versatility and connectivity, it remains to be seen whether this oversight will affect sales and market positioning in the long term. The WH-1000XM6 continues to be a strong choice for users seeking high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation, but potential buyers may wish to weigh these benefits against the limitations of its current design and features.