Fresh images and early details are painting a clearer picture of Sony’s next ultra-premium noise-canceling headphones: the WH-1000XX The ColleXion. Expected to mark the tenth anniversary of Sony’s popular 1000X line, this new model appears to lean into a more luxurious, more industrial design direction—along with a noticeable change in weight and portability.
One of the most striking tweaks is how the arms connect to the earcups. Instead of resting on the cups like on the WH-1000XM6, the arms reportedly sink into the earcups, giving the headset a cleaner, more integrated look. It’s the kind of detail that often signals a shift toward higher-end build quality, and it may also improve durability over time by reducing exposed stress points.
Sony also seems to be upgrading the wired listening experience visually and structurally. The 3.5 mm headphone jack is said to be surrounded by a metal casing—another change compared to the WH-1000XM6. That metal reinforcement could be aimed at better long-term wear resistance, especially for users who regularly plug and unplug their cable.
These design revisions reportedly come with a trade-off: weight. The WH-1000XX The ColleXion is said to weigh 312 grams, which would make it around 25% heavier than the WH-1000XM6. For shoppers comparing Sony’s flagship wireless headphones, weight can affect comfort during long listening sessions, so this will be a key point for frequent travelers and all-day wearers.
Another major shift is the return to a non-foldable design—something Sony previously used on the WH-1000XM5. If accurate, it suggests Sony is prioritizing structural rigidity and aesthetics over compact storage, which may influence how portable the headphones feel in a bag or carry case.
As for launch timing and pricing, Sony is currently expected to unveil the WH-1000XX The ColleXion on May 19. Early pricing expectations point to a premium tier: $649 in the US, €629 in Europe, and £549 in the UK. With that kind of price positioning, Sony appears to be aiming squarely at the top end of the noise-canceling headphones market, targeting buyers who want standout design, flagship features, and anniversary-edition appeal.
More information on features is expected closer to the announcement, but the emerging details already suggest Sony’s next 1000X-series release will focus heavily on premium materials, revised engineering, and a bolder, heavier build than recent generations.
