Sony leaks details of luxury WH-1000XX 'ColleXion' headphones ahead of May launch
The upcoming WH-1000XX 'ColleXion' headphones feature polished metal accents, a V3 co-processor, and audio tuning by Grammy-winning studios, with a release date set for 19 May.
Details regarding Sony’s upcoming WH-1000XX 'ColleXion' headphones have been revealed through a leak from social media accounts @onleaks and HotEUDeals. The luxury edition, which marks the brand’s 10th anniversary in the audio sector, is scheduled for release on 19 May. The leak provides a comprehensive look at the device’s design, technical specifications, and pricing, confirming earlier teasers from Sony that promised a 'masterpiece'.
The ColleXion model distinguishes itself from the current WH-1000XM6 flagship through enhanced build quality and aesthetic refinements. The headphones feature polished metal accents, extra thick padding on the headband and earcups, and redesigned earpad buttons and microphone grilles. Buyers can choose between white or black finishes, with the black variant utilising black metal accents instead of the chrome found on other models. The package also includes a four-foot 3.5mm cable and a sculpted carrying case equipped with a built-in handle and magnetic catch.
Under the hood, the device utilises a V3 co-processor alongside the QN3 processor found in the XM6 series. This configuration supports an adaptive noise cancellation optimizer and six-microphone AI beamforming. Sony promises up to 24 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled, extending to 32 hours when the feature is disabled. The audio quality has been tuned in partnership with Grammy-winning studios Battery Studios, Sterling Sound, and Coast Mastering, with the company describing the output as 'studio-grade'.
Pricing for the ColleXion headphones is listed at $649, representing a $200 premium over the launch price of the current WH-1000XM6 model. This positioning places the device in direct competition with other luxury audio brands such as Bowers & Wilkins. Previous leaks had already hinted at the high-end nature of the release, including images of Formula 1 actor Damson Idris wearing the headphones.
The leak confirms the technical and aesthetic direction of Sony’s luxury tier, offering investors and consumers a clear view of the product’s value proposition ahead of its official launch. The combination of advanced processing power, premium materials, and professional audio tuning suggests Sony is targeting a niche market willing to pay a significant premium for enhanced performance and design.
