Sony introduced the WH-1000XM5 headphones

Sony showed the WH-1000XM5 headphones - the heirs of the popular WH-1000XM4. The company claims that the novelty offers the best noise reduction and the best sound quality on the market. Also, this model received wider and softer ear cushions, so it will be comfortable to use it for people with large ears.

New 30mm drivers are responsible for the sound. There is support for LDAC, SBC and AAC codecs, as well as DSEE Extreme technology to improve compressed audio. Support for surround sound Sony 360 Reality Audio is also in place.

To improve ANC, the QN1 processor from the previous model added a V1 co-processor, which, as reported, should help cut off mid-range and high-frequency street noises. In addition, now there are 8 microphones, and not 4, as in the XM4. True, only half of them are used for voice transmission.

In terms of design, Sony went the way of Apple: the new model only folds the bowls, so you can carry it will be less convenient than the XM4, which folded compactly even when using a solid cover.

The headphones support the Fast Pair function for quick connection to Android and Windows 10/11 devices. As in the previous generation, there is the possibility of a wired connection, a 3.5 mm cable is included in the package.

Battery life is an impressive 30 hours with active noise cancellation and 40 hours without - the XM4 lasts 30 and 38 hours respectively. Sony claims that a 3-minute USB-C charge will be enough for 3 hours of battery life. It will take 3 hours to fully charge.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 will go on sale May 20 for $399.99, $50 more than the XM4. The latter, by the way, are still on sale: Sony does not remove them from production.