Sony is gearing up for a possible late 2025 release of its next-generation WF-1000XM6 earbuds, while also enhancing its current flagship models with a big firmware update.

Recent FCC filings confirm the WF-1000XM6 earbuds are in testing, following earlier certification in China.

Details remain scarce, but the documents reveal a 3.85V battery, Goertek-manufactured antenna, and a MediaTek chipset – the same type used in Sony’s LinkBuds.

It’s suggested this could enable DSEE Ultimate, Sony’s advanced audio upscaling technology, for the first time in earbuds, promising richer sound quality for compressed Bluetooth audio.

While the official launch date is unconfirmed, FCC timelines and past patterns suggest a possible unveiling at CES 2026, or even a surprise release before Christmas.

WF-1000XM5 earbuds

Meanwhile, Sony has rolled out major updates for the WF-1000XM5 earbuds and WH-1000XM6 headphones.

Firmware version 6.0.0 (XM5) and 3.0.0 (XM6) introduce Gemini Live and Audio Sharing via Fast Pair, enhancing convenience and AI interaction.

Gemini Live delivers a more natural voice assistant experience, while Fast Pair enables seamless multi-device connections and sharing audio with others – even supporting private broadcasts to groups.

The update also adds Bluetooth Low Energy (LE Audio) support for digital assistants and head tracking, plus new Find Hub features for the XM5 earbuds, including the ability to locate individual buds and disable Find Hub without the case.

Sony’s updates arrive free via the Sound Connect app.