Sony has announced the much-anticipated WF-1000XM5 earbuds. Revealed via a brief live stream, these earbuds mark the next generation in the XM series, succeeding the XM4 earbuds from 2019. The WF-1000XM5 earbuds are designed to prioritize exceptional sound quality and unparalleled noise-canceling capabilities, as per Sony’s claims. The truly wireless earbuds feature two noise-canceling processors that are considered among the best in the market.
At the heart of this WF-1000XM5 is a newly-developed Dynamic Driver X, aimed at delivering an expansive and nuanced sound reproduction. By effectively canceling noise at lower frequencies, the earbuds create a broader noise cancellation zone for an immersive listening experience. Sony’s dedication to pristine audio quality is evident in their use of the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QNe2 and Integrated Processor V2, which work in tandem to process 24-bit audio and utilize high-performance analog amplification. This commitment to analog amplification underscores Sony’s determination to deliver authentic and uncompromised sound, even in the digital age.
While the WF-1000XM5s are no stranger to Sony’s renowned LDAC codec for high-quality audio transmission, they now come equipped with the DSEE Extreme. This AI-powered feature significantly enhances compressed digital music from popular streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music, breathing new life into audio files that may have lacked depth in the past.
Aesthetically, the earbuds embrace a refined and rounded design, setting them apart from the XM4’s distinct truffle-like shape. The smooth matte finish on the front panel contrasts elegantly with the glossy edges, delivering a sophisticated look. The charging case complements the earbuds’ design, compact enough for convenient portability. With up to 24 hours of playback with the charging case and 8 hours without it, the WF-1000XM5s offer commendable endurance.
Sony’s Headphone Connect app unlocks a host of features, including the 360 Reality Audio function that immerses users in a virtual soundstage, taking audio enjoyment to new heights. The Speak-to-Chat feature ensures seamless transitions between music and conversations, enhancing overall convenience.
The WF-1000XM5 earbuds are equipped with intuitive touch controls, empowering users to manage playback, pause, and noise-canceling adjustments effortlessly. Moreover, the earbuds introduce head gesture control, with a nod accepting incoming calls and a head shake declining them.
These earbuds come packed with Google Fast Pair, facilitating quick and hassle-free connections, alongside the added convenience of Google Assistant built right into the earbuds.
Sony WF-1000XM5 Price and Availability
Sony has open pre-orders in Black or Silver through Sony’s website in select markets. In the US, the 1000XM5 is priced at $299.99, while its price in India and availability is yet to be announced. It will go on sale in the US on July 26.
Brand | Sony WF-1000XM5 |
Bluetooth codecs and audio | Bluetooth 5.3 SBC, AAC, LDAC LE audio DSEE Extreme upscaling |
Water resistance | Earbuds: IPX4 water-resistant build |
Battery | Earbuds, ANC on: 8 hours Case and earbuds, ANC on: 24 hours Earbuds, ANC off: 12 hours Case and earbuds, ANC off: 36 hours |
Charging | USB-C Wireless Fast charging |
Audio hardware | 8.4mm dynamic driver (aka Dynamic Driver X) Six-microphone array |
Sensors | Bone conduction sensor Motion-detecting accelerometer Proximity sensor Touch control |
Chipset | QN2e chip V2 processor |
Spatial audio | Personalized 360 Reality Audio Head tracking |
Features | Adaptive Sound Control Ambient Sound Control Automatic wear detection Ear tip fit test Google Fast Pair Mono mode Multipoint connectivity Speak-to-Chat Swift Pair |
Noise canceling | Yes |
Ambient sound mode | Yes |
Ear tip selection | XS, S, M, L |
Release date | July 24, 2023 |
India Price | Yet to be announced |
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