In between summer travel and beach parties, I'm gonna be spending a lot of time relaxing in the comfort of my own home. I love listening to music, and since I've been meaning to upgrade my setup after moving into a new space, something as cool as the new Sony PS-LX3BT Wireless Bluetooth Turntable seems to fit the bill! It's the perfect mix of old-school and new, with a classic yet modern turntable design, and right now it's at its lowest price for Prime Day, making it the perfect opportunity to buy one.

The Sony PS-LX3BT Wireless Bluetooth Turntable was launched just this year and normally retails for $398, which is a bit above my price range (for most things). At $150 off, you're now paying just under $250 for this rather impressive turntable, which feels like quite a steal.

✅Recommended if: You want a modern turntable with Bluetooth out capabilities as well as support for wired audio connections.

❌Skip this deal if: You don't have a vinyl collection nor plan to build one up.

I've been eyeing turntables for a few years now, and have even started buying vinyl records... just in case.

One of the biggest reasons I want this particular model is that it supports Bluetooth output. For some reason, many turntables only support Bluetooth in, where you can stream music to the player from your phone, but that kinda defeats the purpose of even having a record player. Having Bluetooth out means I can connect the Sony PS-LX3BT Wireless Bluetooth Turntable to my Bluetooth speakers, though it also supports wired audio with a built-in cable and even has a switchable phono EQ.

The turntable features automatic playback, and the tonearm can raise, lower, and return to its resting position on its own. It also supports 33⅓ and 45 rpm speeds, so just about all your vinyl records should play just fine.

But of course, I'll also want a new speaker to go with it, and that's where the Marshall Stanmore III comes in, featuring big, booming sound, plenty of connection options, and a classy design that will fit any home. And whatd'ya know; it's also on sale!

Sony's WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones recently launched to great success, but they're expensive in every sense of the word. At full price, a pair of WH-1000XM6 headphones will run you about $460. That's firmly in the premium segment. You might not know that Sony still sells the last-generation Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones at a much more palatable price point, and they're still an outstanding set of cans.

For the final day of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the retailer is dropping the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones to their lowest price ever. You can snag them for just $243, which is 39% off the typical price of the WH-1000XM5 and is more than $200 cheaper than the WH-1000XM6. If you're in the market for a new pair of active noise-canceling headphones, don't miss this deal — only hours remain.

• See the full list of deals during Amazon's Big Spring Sale - ends March 31st

✅ Recommended if: you want high-quality ANC performance at a budget price; you need a full-size 3.5mm headphone jack; you want LDAC hi-res audio support.

❌ Skip this deal if: you'd rather pay more for the Sony WH-1000XM6; you need headphones with support for USB-C audio.

When we reviewed the Sony WH-100XM5, we called the headphones "the ones to beat." Sure, things have changed in four years, and new releases like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2 headphones have elevated the experience. At the end of the day, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are still great for the reasons they were beloved at launch, especially thanks to their discounted price.

Sony offers LDAC support for hi-res audio listening, and it's a much more compatible format than LHDC or aptX Adaptive. The headphones offer 30mm dynamic drivers for sound quality and have a customizable EQ in the companion app. Eight microphones power the active noise-canceling features along with Sony's custom Integrated Processor V1.

I only have two gripes with the WH-1000XM5, and they're really minor. The matte finish of the headphones attracts fingerprints easily, and the USB-C port doesn't support wired audio input. That last one isn't much of an issue, because the Sony WH-1000XM5 have a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio. All together, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are as complete a package as you'll find at this discount sub-$250 price point.

Spring is swiftly approaching, and if you're starting to plan outdoor activities to enjoy the warm weather, a Bluetooth speaker deal might be exactly what you need. For a limited time, Best Buy is slashing prices on a ton of these party-prepped wireless speakers, with particularly impressive discounts on models from Sony, JBL, and Bose. 

I've dropped a selection of my favorite deals from the sale below. Most of these Bluetooth speakers specialize in delivering big sound from a small package, with great battery life, sleek design, and waterproof construction. Some of these speakers even come with premium features like customizable EQ settings that you can tweak from your Android phone and microphone inputs for karaoke. Keep reading for all of my top picks at Best Buy, and don't wait too long if something catches your eye: these speaker deals could disappear at any time. 

• See the top deals at Best Buy today

Best Buy launches big sale on Bluetooth speakers, just in time for spring

Everyone's talking about high-resolution or high-fidelity audio now that multiple major streaming services — including Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon Music, and Spotify — support lossless quality. In simple terms, lossless audio is a recording that hasn't lost any information during compression. However, it's important to remember that Bluetooth audio codecs compress these recordings, even if they're originally lossless.

There's no way around that, unless you're using a truly advanced (and rare) codec like Qualcomm's AptX Lossless. That said, some Bluetooth codecs are better than others. If you have a pair of Sony earbuds or headphones, you can use LDAC, a high-quality Bluetooth codec that supports 32-bit/96kHz audio at up to 990 kbps.

It isn't enabled by default, though. If you want the best sound quality and are streaming lossless audio from your preferred service, you should tweak the settings on a Sony WF-1000XM6, Sony WH-1000XM6, or an older model. Here's what you need to know about LDAC and how to enable it.

What is LDAC, and why do I need it?

LDAC is a Bluetooth audio codec that uses "efficient coding" and "optimized packetization" to transmit roughly three times as much data as other codecs, according to Sony. Although this is a Sony codec, it's available widely on Android phones. It even appears on non-Sony headphones, like the Nothing Ear 3.

It's worth noting that LDAC isn't lossless, and it might not be the best Bluetooth audio codec for every situation. One of the things that makes LDAC unique is its ability to use variable bit rates during transmissions. It offers 330 kbps, 660 kbps, and 990 kbps, with the latter being the best-performing of the group. If your device and headphones don't support LDAC 990 kbps, you might be better off using another codec.

Starting with Android 8 Oreo, LDAC support was added to the Android Open Source Project. Now, most Android phones are compatible.

How to enable LDAC for Sony headphones

Sony doesn't make it easy for the average user to know whether LDAC is enabled on their headphones or earbuds. It's hidden behind the Bluetooth Connection Quality setting, and LDAC isn't mentioned by name.

Instead, you need to change your headphones' quality settings to prioritize sound quality, allowing them to use LDAC in certain situations. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Sony Sound Connect app, or download it from the Google Play Store if you haven't already installed it.

2. Scroll down to the Device settings tab for your headphones or earbuds.

3. Tap the Connection tab.

4. Press the Bluetooth Connection Quality page.

5. Select Prioritize Sound Quality to use LDAC.

Optionally, tap Add shortcut to the top screen of My Device to make this setting easier to find in the future. It's worth noting that, according to the Sound Connect app, "a codec is auto-selected." However, on the central My Device screen in Sound Connect, you can see that LDAC becomes available after adjusting this option.

What about DSEE Extreme?

If you're diving down the rabbit hole of advanced Sony audio features, you may have noticed a setting called DSEE Extreme. It stands for Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, and it can upscale low-resolution or compressed audio by default. According to Sony, DSEE Extreme makes "complex calculations and predictions to make low-resolution files sound almost like high-resolution audio."

All things equal, a high-resolution audio file streamed with LDAC should sound better than a compressed file upscaled with DSEE Extreme. The latter may be desirable when lossless files are unavailable, though. Sony itself notes that DSEE isn't meant for streaming audio that is already hi-res lossless. Crucially, the technology uses AI in an attempt to "accurately reproduce the original sound quality before the file was compressed."

With all this in mind, LDAC is certainly preferable to DSEE Extreme, and it's best to leave the latter off when streaming high-quality music.

When to use LDAC over AAC

The Prioritize Sound Quality setting for Sony headphones and earbuds isn't the only option — users can stick with Prioritize Stable Connection or Low Latency instead. Stable connection is more reliable overall, especially when utilizing dual-device pairing. When this setting is active, you can expect to see AAC used as the Bluetooth audio codec instead of LDAC. Low latency uses Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, but this feature is in beta and only available with certain models.

It's better to keep AAC if you're not streaming in lossless audio or if your device doesn't support the highest LDAC bitrate of 990 kbps. Otherwise, you will probably benefit from LDAC's enhanced quality and reduced compression. It's one of the perks of buying a pair of Sony headphones or earbuds, but it's up to you to decide whether you can actually hear the difference.

Sony's overhauled WF-1000XM6 earbuds are finally here, but how do they compare to the outgoing WF-1000XM5 model? If you were hoping for major changes, you're in luck — Sony revamped the WF-1000XM6 earbuds inside and out. Notably, the new Sony earbuds are more expensive than ever, retailing for $330. That's more than the most expensive wireless earbuds, including the AirPods Pro 3 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Gen 2.

I'm not sure any pair if earbuds can fully command that kind of price point, but if any model could, it would be the Sony WF-1000XM6. I compared Sony's latest premium earbuds to their predecessor, and the upgrades are ones you'll notice on a daily basis. These are all the ways Sony's WF-1000XM6 stands out compared to the WF-1000XM5, and whether you should buy them.

Sony overhauled the WF-1000XM6 earbud and case design

The visual changes start with the charging case, as the new model's included case takes the form of a cylindrical oval. The top, bottom, front, and back of the case are completely flat, and sides are rounded to create a futuristic-looking shape. As a result of the changes, the Sony WF-1000XM6 charging case ends up being slightly taller than the one for the WF-1000XM5. The design looks neat to me, but some might prefer the more compact and curvy WF-1000XM5 case.

The features of the charging case are identical between generations. There's a USB-C port for charging as well as Qi wireless support. Additionally, you get an LED status light on the front and a pairing button on the back of each model. The one difference is that the WF-1000XM6's light is tucked away behind the plastic, so it's not visible unless it is lit up.

Battery life is consistent across models, too. Both support up to eight hours of listening time with ANC active from the earbuds, and that extends to up to 24 hours with the charging case.

The more impactful change is the earbud redesign. I didn't love the look and feel of the WF-1000XM5 earbuds; the shape was oversized, the matte finish didn't look right, and they didn't sit securely or comfortably in my ears. It looks like Sony went back to the drawing board for the WF-1000XM6 earbuds, and that effort paid off. The newer model sports a pill-shaped design that Sony says is 11% smaller than the WF-1000XM5 earbud chassis.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 fit much better in my unforgiving ear canals as a result. I still won't choose hybrid foam ear tips when given the choice — they feel uncomfortable, and I thought the same of the WF-1000XM5 and AirPods Pro 3. That said, the redesign and smaller size of the WF-1000XM6 earbuds at least make them wearable for long listening sessions. I'm never worried about these falling out of my ears, either.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 have more mics, a better chip, and new drivers

The internal hardware changes between the WF-1000XM5 and the WF-1000XM6 are perhaps the more exciting upgrades. Sony markets the newer model as being 25% better at blocking ambient noise with active noise-canceling, and that's partly due to an extra microphone onboard each earbud.

Additionally, the newer model offers the advanced QN3e chip with Sony's Integrated Processor V2. In addition to helping with ANC and microphone quality for calls, these chips help deliver better sound quality with improved DAC and amp performance.

Sony also redesigned the audio driver in the WF-1000XM6, and the earbuds' diaphragm uses different materials for the dome and edge, helping them deliver excellent soundstage separation.

Put simply, the Sony WF-1000XM6 sound stellar as soon as you put them in your ears. They aren't aggressively tuned to prioritize certain parts of the soundstage. Everything sounds exactly as you'd want it to as the listener. The right instruments or vocals seem to shine in different tracks across genres. You don't need to use an EQ to get the WF-1000XM6 to sound excellent for your favorite genre.

If you do like tweaking your earbuds' sound with an equalizer, you'll be happy to learn that the WF-1000XM6 now support a 10-band EQ, up from the five-band EQ available for the WF-1000XM5. Other software highlights include LDAC support for hi-res Bluetooth audio, Bluetooth Low Energy support, and custom listening modes. According to Sony, the WF-1000XM6 have large Bluetooth antennas, enabling more reliable connections.

As for the real-world active noise-canceling performance, Sony's claims seem to check out. The Sony WF-1000XM6 can turn a bustling coffee house into near-silence, and that's without any music playing. Being able to quiet an environment with ANC without needing to crank up the volume of your music is amazing. The transparency mode is outstanding too — the WF-1000XM6 let me order a coffee or chat with a friend while leaving my earbuds in my ears, which is exactly what I want.

Are the Sony WF-1000XM6 worth the upgrade from the XM5s?

Sony's outgoing WF-1000XM5 earbuds are coming up on three years old this summer. If you were an early adopter, it might be time to upgrade. The Sony WF-1000XM6 shake things up in a major way to improve comfort, sound quality, ANC performance, and reliability. That said, if you think the WF-1000XM5 are perfect, you might want to stick with them. Big changes are ahead, and not everyone likes change.

This is why the new Sony WF-1000XM6 might actually be more appealing to outsiders. If you've watched Sony earbuds from afar but never found them stylish or comfortable enough to buy, this is the model for you. The one hard thing to overcome is the price. They aren't a bad deal at $330, although it's hard to say they're $120 better than the AirPods Pro 3, which are currently down to $210 at Best Buy.

Like almost every pair of wireless headphones, it probably makes sense to wait a few months for the WF-1000XM6 to come down in price. It's inevitable, so if you're patient, it will pay off.

What you need to know

• Sony says the WF-1000XM6 deliver 25% better noise cancellation than the XM5, targeting real-world distractions like voices and chatter.
• Two chips do the work: Integrated Processor V2 handles audio, while the new QN3e processor runs noise cancellation through four mics per bud.
• The earbuds are out now for $330 in Platinum Silver and Black. The WH-1000XM6 over-ears also get a new Sand Pink option for $460.

Sony’s WF-1000XM6 earbuds are here, and they’re not the kind of incremental refresh we’ve grown cynical about. This time, Sony is focusing on a real problem: improving noise cancellation in everyday situations. The company claims a 25% reduction in noise compared to the WF-1000XM5.

Sony says the new design is about 11% slimmer than the XM5s and shaped to fit the natural curves of your ear. It has also added better ventilation to improve airflow, which should help reduce the thumping sound you hear when walking or chewing.

The big news is the WF-1000XM6’s claim of 25% better noise reduction over the last model. It’s made possible by two processors working together: the familiar Integrated Processor V2 and the new HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3e. Each earbud now has four microphones instead of three.

More powerful noise-canceling hardware

This leads to better noise cancellation, especially for mid-to-high frequencies. In other words, the earbuds should do a better job of blocking out voices in a coffee shop, not just the deep noise of an airplane. The Adaptive Noise Canceling Optimizer also checks how you’re wearing the earbuds in real time to keep the fit secure, even if you move.

Audio fans will like that the V2 chip now supports 32-bit processing, which offers higher resolution than the old 24-bit standard. The new driver uses both soft and hard materials: a soft edge for deeper bass and a firm dome for clearer highs, helping to reduce distortion. Sony also worked with Grammy-winning engineers like Randy Merrill and Chris Gehringer to fine-tune the sound.

On the software side, Google Gemini is built in for hands-free help. You can use Gemini Live to brainstorm or manage your calendar without unlocking your phone. Gamers will also appreciate that the earbuds support LE Audio for very low delay.

Battery life is still eight hours per charge, with an extra 24 hours from the case. The case now supports Qi wireless charging and is easier to open with one hand.

The WF-1000XM6 is available now for $330 in Platinum Silver and Black. If you prefer over-ears, Sony also dropped a new Sand Pink version of the WH-1000XM6 headphones for $460.

Android Central's Take

I’ve tried plenty of wireless earbuds, and while noise cancellation always matters to me, the fit has been an issue. The 25% noise reduction on the XM6 sounds impressive, but the 11% smaller size is what really impresses me. I wear earbuds for hours, and the blocked feeling of older models made them uncomfortable on long flights. If the new ventilation really cuts down on the echo from chewing or walking, these could finally be the earbuds I’ll use every day. The $330 price is high, but if the fit is as good as Sony says, your ears and your peace of mind might thank you.

What you need to know

• Sony confirms in a short teaser that it will launch a new pair of earbuds on February 12 at 8 am PT (11 am ET).
• While not confirmed, it looks like the company is teasing the WF-1000XM6 with an alleged pill shape redesign.
• A recent leak for the buds suggest it could cost $30 at around $330.

You wanted a teaser, and Sony's latest for its upcoming earbuds not only confirms they exist, but it also solidifies a launch date.

Sony uploaded an incredibly short teaser for an upcoming pair of earbuds on YouTube this week. The short clip is dark for the most part, with a massive beat drop that feels like Batman should show up. Sony begins by showing off a partial illumination of the earbuds' form factor before showing the device in its charging case. From this, it looks like we can expect the buds to remain standing in their case, like the WF-1000XM5.

However, the main course in this rumor is the final scene of this teaser, which confirms the "next generation of earbuds. Coming soon."

Sony confirms that its next earbuds will launch on February 12 at 8 am PST (11 am ET).

The teaser leaves us wanting more, which you could say is the whole point of a teaser. Sony didn't offer information about this device in the teaser, nor in its video description box. It also didn't confirm that the buds will be called the "WF-1000XM6," but we, much like many others, are expecting it to.

Maybe a little different?

It's only been a few days since the WF-1000XM6 had its renders leak, which alleges a redesign could be inbound. It was reportedly leaked by a retailer that posted the device's details early. From the images, the WF-1000XM6 might ditch the series' glossy aesthetic for a matte texture with grip. Other details in the leaked listing suggest the earbuds will feature ANC (active noise cancellation) with an IPX4 water and sweat resistance rating.

The earbuds might also see a slightly redesigned pill shape. This could likely be done to help its in-ear fit. Moreover, that leaked listing claims the device could cost around $330. A potential $30 increase over the last model.

Android Central's Take

There was a time when you'd look at Sony and think of it as a predominant member of the audio tech game. In a way, that's still true, as the WF-1000XM5 did a lot right when Sony launched it three years ago. As my fellow news writer Jay Bonggolto said, I need to see the "wow feature." It's been quite a while since we've had a WF entry from Sony, and I'm hoping there's something more it's holding onto. If that impressive beat drop at the beginning of the teaser is any indication, perhaps we're in for fully immersive sound that jumbles my brain.

What you need to know

• A retailer slip-up just revealed the Sony WF-1000XM6 in full.
• The glossy finish is gone, replaced by a grippier matte texture that’s less slippery and more practical.
• The leaked retail listing points to around $330, which is roughly $30 more than the XM5 at launch.

Sony hasn’t announced anything yet, but a big retail mistake has revealed its next flagship earbuds. If you’ve been waiting to buy new noise-canceling earbuds, it might be smart to hold off for a few more weeks.

The long-awaited Sony WF-1000XM6 just made an unscheduled debut on the Thai retail site Power Buy, and the leak is about as comprehensive as it gets (though the listing has since been taken down). Thanks to some eagle-eyed sleuthing by a Reddit user, spotted by The Walkman Blog, we now have high-res looks at a total design overhaul that ditches the truffle shape of old for something much sleeker.

Product images show a new pill-shaped design that looks more comfortable than the round WF-1000XM4 or the tiny WF-1000XM5.

Matte finish is back (finally)

The best news for many people is that the glossy finish is gone. Sony is said to be bringing back a matte texture, which should help anyone who found the old buds too slippery. The charging case is also slimmer and more square, making it easier to fit in your pocket than before.

While the retail listing was light on a full spec sheet, it did confirm the essentials: IPX4 water resistance and Sony's industry-leading ANC and Transparency modes.

The hardware also stands out. Close-up images show three external microphones on each earbud, which suggests Sony is focusing on better wind noise reduction and clearer calls — two things that many fan-favorite earbuds struggle with.

There’s also some chatter about the ear tips. We’re seeing larger nozzles, which usually point to a wider air channel. In plain English: expect a notable bump in bass response and lower-frequency oomph that true wireless buds usually lack.

If the leaks hold steady, we aren't just looking at a new design, but also a new price tag. The listing points to a price of 11,990 Thai Baht, which translates to roughly $330. That’s a slight $30 jump over the XM5’s launch price.

Android Central's Take

I’m thrilled to see Sony finally listening to the feedback on that divisive glossy finish. I’ve always thought the XM series had the best noise cancellation, but the XM5s were just too fidgety to handle on a crowded train. If the XM6 can pair that legendary silence with a more secure, matte-grip design and better bass, Sony might just have the perfect earbuds on its hands. I’m definitely keeping my eyes on that rumored Sandpink colorway — it’s about time this series had a little more personality.

The open earbuds market is gaining more attention, with Sony kicking off 2026 with a revamped pair in the new LinkBuds Clip. They're immediately going up against options from Bose and Motorola — Bose sells the Ultra Open earbuds, and Motorola's Moto Buds Loop are powered by Bose sound. The latter two models retail for $300 at full price, while the LinkBuds Clip costs $230.

The first thing I noticed after unboxing the Sony LinkBuds Clip was how similar the earbuds' design looks compared with the Moto Buds Loop. Motorola's open earbuds are a bit flashier, especially the colorways with Swarovski crystals. Otherwise, both earbuds clip onto the midpoint of your earlobe with an orb-shaped audio driver resting outside your ear canal.

With the Sony LinkBuds Clip and the Moto Buds Loop similar in both design and price point, I put them both to the test to find out which pair of open earbuds you should buy.

Sony's LinkBuds Clip are better for everyday wear

If you haven't tried open earbuds yet, they differ from traditional earbuds in a few key ways. For starters, open earbuds place the audio driver outside of your ear canal, increasing airflow and comfort. This makes open earbuds ideal for long listening sessions, as you can hear your tunes without your ears feeling clogged after a few hours. The downsides are obvious: sound quality is poor, there's no noise isolation whatsoever, and others might hear your music due to sound leakage.

Some people prefer open earbuds for long days at the office, as they can use the microphone and audio drivers for video calls without having earbuds physically inside their ear canals. Others like them for working out, as they can hear ambient noise and reduce sweat compared to traditional earbuds. The smaller, sweatproof design of the LinkBuds Clip make them better suited in this regard.

Sony's open earbuds are IPX4-certified, meaning they'll survive sweat or a bit of light rain. In other words, they're workout-friendly. IPX4 earbuds are pretty commonplace these days, but oddly, the Moto Buds Loop don't have an IP rating at all — it's hard to recommend them for everyday wear or workout use as a result.

Another reason the Sony LinkBuds Clip shines when used out and about is their "sound leakage reduction mode." It's essentially a smart equalizer setting that changes the sound signature of the open earbuds to limit parts of the frequency spectrum that "leak" out into your environment. Specifically, this mode slashes the mids and highs, which would usually be easy for someone sitting next to you to hear.

I wouldn't dare listen to music on a pair of open earbuds or open-air speakers like those you'd find on smart glasses near others in public. This effectively rules out using them during a daily commute or in the office — anywhere you're in very close proximity to others, sound leakage is a concern. Sony's built-in sound leakage reduction mode nearly solves this problem in its entirety, and it only takes two taps to activate.

Notably, sound quality is considerably worse when the sound leakage reduction mode is active. This seems like a fair trade-off to continue to be able to use your earbuds in dense public situations, though. Sony's IPX4 and sound leakage reduction mode support are two ways the LinkBuds Clip perform better as a pair of everyday earbuds than the Moto Buds Loop.

Motorola's Moto Buds Loop nail design and sound quality

By comparison, the Moto Buds Loop work best as a pair of secondary earbuds. They lack a proper IP rating and don't have a comparable sound leakage reduction mode, so it'll be hard for them to pass as a pair of everyday buds. With that being said, the Buds Loop are much better sounding than the LinkBuds Clip. Motorola's open earbuds are marketed as using sound by Bose, and it feels like Bose's input really made a difference here.

Everything sounds fuller, richer, and more detailed out of the Moto Buds Loop. It's not particularly about the bass, either — open earbuds don't create a seal in your ear canal, and this makes it almost impossible for this form factor to deliver strong bass. I noticed the difference most in songs with a deep, present piano. Since the piano occupies the middle of the soundstage, it can exist in the Moto Buds Loop without being drowned out by the lows or highs. Listening to the same tracks with the LinkBuds Clip, those same sounds weren't as strong.

This could come down to Bose's excellent tuning, but it's likely a side effect of the Moto Buds Loop offering larger 12mm drivers. These are on the bigger side for earbuds, and the extra size helps the Moto Buds Loop sound fuller and crisper than the LinkBuds Clip, which have 10mm drivers.

The sound quality difference is enough to make me reach for the Moto Buds Loop over the Sony LinkBuds Clip, but Motorola's premium design is another advantage. Sony used glossy plastic for the LinkBuds Clip, and it simply makes the earbuds feel cheap. It doesn't help that the stock design won't fit well for everyone out of the box. Sony includes silicone fitting cushions in the box for users to add to the LinkBuds Clip for those who don't initially find the fit secure.

I fell into that category, so I needed to attach the silicone spacers to the LinkBuds Clip. While it did improve the fit as advertised, it was annoying to need a cheap piece of silicone to wear the earbuds properly. I needed to hold down the silicone cushion every time I put on the LinkBuds Clip, or I'd risk the thing popping off.

All that is to say that the metal, unibody design of the Moto Buds Loop is much more comfortable, and it creates a better experience for the wearer. The crystal studs are a bit of a gimmick, but I'd take them over plastic and silicone every time.

The verdict: I'd buy the Moto Loop Buds

I wouldn't buy a pair of open earbuds as my daily drivers — I like using multiple pairs of earbuds each for a specific purpose. While the Sony LinkBuds Clip are the better all-rounders, Motorola's Moto Buds Loop sound better and feel more premium, and that won me over.

If you're looking to buy a pair of open earbuds, it helps that prices for the Moto Buds Loop have cratered. They debuted at $300, but you can find them under $150 right now, which is an insane price. The current slate of Moto Buds Loop deals make the LinkBuds Clip look overpriced. Sony's earbuds will likely see deals of their own in a few months, but until then, Motorola earns my recommendation.

Sony is here with a new pair of open earbuds, the LinkBuds Clip, which introduce a fresh form factor that doesn't obstruct the wearer's ear canal. The new open earbuds move to the clip or C-shaped design popularized by brands like Motorola and Bose, leaving behind the ring-shaped design of the previous Sony LinkBuds Open. By comparison, the new Sony LinkBuds Clip address common critiques of the old design, including comfort, sound quality, and noise leakage.

The company officially announced the LinkBuds Clip today, Jan. 21, and they're now available for $230 in the U.S. This price point positions the LinkBuds Clip as a more affordable option compared to the Moto Buds Loop and the Bose Ultra Open earbuds, which both retail for $300. After a few days of testing the Sony LinkBuds Clip for myself, it's clear that the price is just one way this pair makes open earbuds more approachable to the masses.

The first thing that caught my eye about the Sony LinkBuds Clip is the earbuds' charging case. It's smaller than the one you'd get from Bose or Motorola, and much more fun. This charging case has the footprint of a two-inch square with a double-decker design. It's very rounded, looking somewhat like two pillows stacked atop each other.

The case is a taller than the competition when laid flat, but it's narrower, and I find this makes the LinkBuds Clip easier to fit in a pocket. These earbuds definitely have character and leave room for customization. The buds themselves are available in black, green, greige, and lavender colors. I tested the greige colorway that you'll see pictured throughout this article.

You can take the customization a step further by purchasing a case cover for an extra $25, and those are available in coral, green, blue, lavender, and black. The unique aspect of the case covers is that you can pick different colors for the top and bottom portion of the case. They include "fitting cushions" — I'll explain those later — that match the top cover color of the case.

In theory, that means you could have earbuds in one color, fitting cushions and one half of the case in another, and a third for the bottom case. That's a pretty trendy way to personalize your earbuds.

Take a look at the LinkBuds Clip compared to the Moto Buds Loop in the photo above — they're much more compact and simplistic, and to be clear, that's a good thing.

The Sony LinkBuds Clip work like most other pairs of open earbuds. The large, pill-shaped portion of the earbuds rests behind your ear lobes when in use, with the orb-shaped portion resting above or inside your concha. They way they fit will depend on your ear shape. I found that without the fitting cushions, the audio drivers sat inside my concha, which was a bit uncomfortable.

Adding the silicone fitting cushions to the upper band of the LinkBuds Clip fixed everything. With this tiny pad adding a bit of space between the LinkBuds Clip and my ear, the audio drivers felt like they were levitating outside my ear canal. That's exactly what you want from a pair of open earbuds. You hear the sound coming from the drivers, but also hear ambient noise in your surrounding to maintain awareness without any pressure.

Speaking of sound quality, the Sony LinkBuds Clip are fairly balanced for their category. Open earbuds won't sound as good as traditional earbuds because there is no isolation, and the drivers don't fire directly into your ear canal. Usually, that results in weak bass and a tinny sound. However, the LinkBuds Clip impressed me in that regard, delivering strong bass under the circumstances.

The earbuds support multipoint connection and the SBC or AAC codecs. There are no lossless or high-fidelity codecs here, but they would be redundant anyway due to the sound quality limitations I've mentioned. Instead, what's notable is the three sound modes on the LinkBuds Clip. You'll probably use standard mode most of the time, but there is also a voice boost mode that might be preferable for listening to podcasts or watching videos.

Most importantly, there is a "sound leakage reduction mode" that changes the sound signature as to not bother others around you. Like any open earbuds, the Sony LinkBuds Clip can be heard by those nearby when they are set to medium-to-high volume levels. The sound leakage reduction mode cuts the mids and the highs, which are easily perceptible by those around, to limit the intrusion. It works well, but the sound quality takes a noticeable hit.

For calls, the LinkBuds Clip use AI for noise reduction and leverage a bone conduction sensor to pick up your voice as you speak.

The earbuds last up to nine hours on a single charge, and that can extend to 37 hours with the charging case. That should be enough for the longest listening sessions. They have IPX4 liquid-resistance, making them sweatproof for working out.

I've only listened to the LinkBuds Clip for a few days, and it's too soon to give a final verdict. However, I like what I'm seeing (and hearing) so far. These are minimal open earbuds that keep things simple while undercutting the price of the competition. They're more approachable to newcomers than the older Sony LinkBuds Open, giving the new LinkBuds Clip an advantage.

Audio nerds have plenty of Black Friday headphones deals to tempt them, with hundreds off the fanciest Sony or Bose ANC headphones — but they'll still cost you $200 and up. For mere mortals like you and me, a simple pair of affordable, reliable headphones is much better.

My genuine recommendation? The Sony ZX Wired On-Ear Headphones, which are just $12.99 (48% off) at Best Buy, or the upgraded Sony ZX with mic for $19.99 (43% off) at Amazon if you plan to use these for Google Meet or Discord.

I've been using my Sony ZXs every workday since February 2022, plus most weekends, wired into my Sony DualSense or Xbox Wireless Controllers for long gaming sessions. My fiancée also uses hers regularly, though her pair is in much better shape and should last a couple more years. In my case, I don't mind having to buy a new pair after nearly four years, considering the great price.

✅Recommended if: You want reliable audio quality for your workday playlist, a lightweight fit that won't feel uncomfortable by 5 p.m. or press into your glasses arms, and a low price that saves your tech budget for wireless earbuds instead.

❌Skip this deal if: You need either active or passive noise cancellation, or you're the kind of audiophile who needs more advanced drivers from flagship headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra.

I'm not an expert on the best wireless headphones; most of my colleagues' picks are on sale for Black Friday if you're willing to spend hundreds more. For me, I care more about spending money on workout earbuds, like my fantastic Shokz OpenFit 2 or OpenFit 2+ earbuds, when something like the Sony ZX costs so little.

In particular, I appreciate that the ZX series only weighs 119g or 0.26 pounds, when your typical high-end wireless headphones weigh 250g. It makes a difference!

The Sony ZX series is quite popular, with hundreds of thousands of solid reviews on Amazon and Best Buy combined, because of its simple quality and affordability paired with a household name. This Black Friday deal price isn't the lowest ever; it's fallen as low as $9.99 before. But don't fall into the Black Friday deal trap trying to "save" as much money as possible; $13 for headphones that'll last for years is great.

Personally, I prefer the ZXs with the mic, which captures perfectly clear sound for my colleagues on remote calls or teammates during multiplayer Baldur's Gate sessions. But it's up to you whether you want to save a few more bucks or not! Either way, I'm off to buy a new pair for myself.

More Black Friday deals - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

Sometimes the stars align, and the exact product you've been waiting for hits its lowest price just in time for Black Friday. That is exactly what happened to me this week. I was on the hunt for high-quality Bluetooth headphones that offer seamless multi-device connectivity, and the Sony WH-CH720N ANC headphones were at the top of my list. Luckily, the wait paid off—you can now grab a pair for just $88!

Seriously, these wireless headphones totally nailed it, connecting effortlessly to everything, whether I'm using my iPhone or an Android device, or my smart TV. As a person who occasionally, or let's be honest, binge-games (I'm currently deep into Ghost of Yōtei), I was on the hunt for Bluetooth headphones that were extremely easy to connect and could also serve as a decent gaming headset.

✅Recommended if: You want lightweight, comfortable headphones; you want good ANC performance; you need great battery life. Amazing for students or people who work on the go, due to its multipoint connection feature (allowing pairing with two Bluetooth devices at once).

❌Skip this deal if: You want a more premium ANC performance, as this one is noticeably less effective than premium models (like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort series) in completely silencing loud or persistent noise. And if you wear glasses constantly, these headphones may press against them, making it uncomfortable.

Some of the highlight specs of the Sony WH-CH720N headphones are that they come with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) thanks to the V1 chip and Dual Noise Sensor tech. This is super helpful for blocking out traffic sounds, or when I need to focus on writing an article or during late-night gaming, when I can zone out into the land of Ezo (Hokkaido, Japan).

These headphones are super light, weighing only 192g—so you can basically wear them all day! Plus, let's not forget the battery life is one of its perks, giving you up to 35 hours even with ANC, and also charges pretty quickly. Personally, I'm someone who juggles between using a Mac, my phone, and the TV for gaming, so the Multipoint Connection feature makes switching between devices a breeze. And lastly, to top it all off, for hands-free convenience, these headphones integrate Google Assistant and offer easy connectivity to Alexa.

More Black Friday deals - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

Despite there being a ton of enticing Black Friday deals every year, I will only find myself getting one or two things each year. Last year, I treated myself to the Sony Ult Field 1, and a year later, it has more than justified the purchase. Now, it's back on sale, and I'm thinking of buying a second one, because why not?

This year's sale is the same as last year's. The Sony Ult Field 1 is 37% off at Amazon, bringing it down from $139 to just $88. Honestly, if I can spend less than $100 on a Bluetooth speaker of this caliber, I already feel like I've won.

• Amazon's Black Friday week is LIVE: see the full list of deals

✅Recommended if: You want a Bluetooth speaker with great sound, booming bass, and a portable design so you can easily carry it around.

❌Skip this deal if: You want a Bluetooth speaker with stereo sound without needing a second speaker. Also if you want an audio jack or USB-C playback.

Bring the party with you

I'm a big believer that everyone should have at least one portable Bluetooth speaker. However, on the off-chance that my friends don't, I always make sure to bring one. My previous one was showing its age, so I replaced it with the Sony Ult Field 1, and it's been one of the best purchases I've made.

The speaker is surprisingly light, so I can either carry it with the built-in strap or stuff it in a bag. It has a durable design, so you don't have to worry about having it out at the beach. I also appreciate that it has buttons so I can control the volume and easily pair it to new devices.

For a relatively small Bluetooth speaker, it's surprisingly loud. I've had it at a few outdoor gatherings, and it's more than enough to keep small and mid-sized groups entertained. It sounds great and has plenty of bass, but you can also up the bass if need be by pressing the Ult button. I rarely find that I need to do this, but bass heads will definitely appreciate the kind of sound you can squeeze out of this small speaker.

And while sound is already pretty good, you can pair the speaker with a second Ult Field 1 to achieve a true stereo experience. I only have one, but with a deal this good, there's little reason not to get a second speaker.

You'll also appreciate the long battery life. I've rarely found myself running the battery down, even after seemingly using the speaker for what feels like an entire day. And if you find you need a charge, you can always whip out a portable power bank to keep the party going.

Black Friday 2025 - quick links

• Best Buy: up to 60% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
• Amazon: early discounts on headphones, smart home tech
• Walmart: early price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
• Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
• Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
• T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
• Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
• AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line
  
  More Black Friday coverage
• The best Google Pixel deals of Black Friday
• The best Samsung deals of Black Friday
• The best Motorola deals of Black Friday

Like clockwork, Apple introduced a new set of iPhones this September. But the highlight of the "Awe Dropping" keynote for me wasn't the new iPhone 17 lineup or even the Apple Watch Series 11. It was the new AirPods Pro 3.

As an Android user for the past few years, I've always been a bit envious of how seamlessly the AirPods work within the Apple ecosystem. You can effortlessly switch between devices, enjoy that sleek connection animation every time you open the case, and experience some of the best active noise cancellation on any earbuds.

Sure, Android has plenty of strong contenders, too. The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are both excellent wireless earbuds, and there are equally impressive options from brands like Bose and Sony, including the new QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Gen 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5.

But the AirPods Pro 3 were the turning point for me. After avoiding them for years, I finally bought them — and there's no doubt they're impressive. The active noise cancellation is truly top-tier.

I took two flights wearing them, and there was virtually no cabin noise at all. My Pixel Buds Pro 2 have been great at cutting down ambient sounds during travel, but this was on another level.

But that's not the feature I want other brands to copy. Earbuds will keep getting better at noise cancellation with each new generation, but the feature that genuinely blew me away on the AirPods Pro 3 is the built-in heart rate tracking.

AirPods Pro 3 can now track your workouts too

One of the new features Apple has added to the AirPods Pro 3 is an optical heart rate sensor. This means you can now use the AirPods Pro 3 to track your workouts. Similar to other fitness trackers, the heart rate sensor flashes light to measure blood flow through the ear canal and shares that data with the iPhone's Fitness app.

The app then uses on-device AI to calculate workout metrics such as calories burned, steps taken, and distance covered. Apple even claims that the AirPods Pro 3 can track over fifty workouts, including running, yoga, and strength training.

And while it may sound strange to track workouts using earbuds instead of traditional fitness trackers or smartwatches, it's actually a pretty smart idea. The ear is actually a pretty stable location for heart rate monitoring, as the sensors are close to major arteries and less affected by movement during intense activity.

Apple also says that when both the AirPods Pro 3 and an Apple Watch are connected to your iPhone, the system automatically uses data from whichever device provides the most accurate readings at any given moment. This ensures the best coverage and accuracy throughout your workout.

That said, I decided to use the AirPods Pro 3 as my only health-tracking device for over a week, comparing it directly with a dedicated fitness tracker. And here's how the AirPods performed and whether they can really be considered reliable fitness trackers.

How reliable is the AirPods Pro 3's heart rate tracking?

Since I already wear the AirPods Pro 3 throughout my workout sessions, being able to track workouts means I can skip fitness wearables on my wrist, which feels like a win-win for me.

To truly assess whether the AirPods Pro 3 is a reliable fitness tracker, I tested them against another fitness tracker, the Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro, which I paired with a different smartphone to prevent my iPhone from mixing the data. My goal was to see if the two devices recorded similar results, and the outcome was surprisingly close.

For context, my workouts usually include a mix of strength training, cardio, and stretching. Even on other fitness devices, I typically select the "Other" workout mode so I don't have to switch between multiple modes during my hour-long sessions.

I followed the same setup for this test. I started my workout on both devices at the same time and compared their heart rate and calorie readings throughout.

To my surprise, the heart rate numbers from both the AirPods Pro 3 and the Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro were almost identical every time I checked. The calorie estimates were slightly different, which makes sense since each device uses its own algorithm to estimate calories burned. What impressed me was how well the AirPods tracked workout intensity and rhythm through the ear.

The heart rate is a direct physiological metric, while calorie burn depends more on how each device interprets your body data. The fact that the AirPods Pro 3 matched a dedicated fitness tracker in real-time heart rate accuracy was genuinely impressive.

For most people, especially casual gym-goers or those who don't like wearing a smartwatch, this level of precision is more than enough, in my opinion. You can simply pop in your AirPods, start your workout, and still get meaningful insights without any extra gear.

Of course, if you're looking for advanced fitness tracking, something like a Whoop or Garmin watch will still be the better choice. But for everyday users or those who occasionally forget their tracker at home, the AirPods Pro 3 does a surprisingly good job.

What you need to know

• Sony finally ditched the vertical camera strip, with the Xperia 10 VII now using a Pixel-style, pill-shaped camera bar for its dual lenses.
• The phone packs a new 1/1.56-inch main sensor and a 1/3-inch ultrawide lens, but Sony hasn’t shared megapixel details yet.
• Up front is a 6.1-inch Full HD+ OLED with 120 Hz refresh and Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

Sony’s latest mid-range phone is more than just a minor spec bump, as it finally breaks away from its long-standing vertical camera layout. In fact, the Xperia 10 VII's design choice is clearly inspired by Google’s Pixel lineup.

The Xperia 10 VII delivers the first big design revamp the 10 series has seen in years, even while keeping Sony’s usual bezels and overall layout. The biggest visual change is the camera: instead of the familiar vertical strip, the Xperia 10 VII adopts a pill-shaped horizontal camera bar that instantly makes it look different from its predecessors.

The phone features a new 1/1.56-inch main sensor alongside a 1/3-inch ultrawide lens, though the MP count is missing from the company's announcement.

Around the front, the 6.1-inch FullHD+ OLED now supports a 120 Hz refresh rate and is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.

Old-school perks that still matter

The Xperia 10 VII also makes a quiet argument for practicality and keeps hardware perks you rarely see anymore. It packs upgraded stereo speakers up front and a 3.5mm headphone jack. For anyone who wants a phone with real flexibility and full-featured hardware, this one’s hard to ignore.

Under the hood, Sony has moved to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chip with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable up to 2TB via microSD.

A 5,000 mAh battery keeps everything running, though charging speeds aren’t aiming to impress. Sony also introduced an “Adaptive Charging” feature meant to keep the battery from wearing out even after four years, but it hasn’t revealed how it actually works.

The build remains classic Sony, with IP65/68 water and dust resistance and a physical shutter button for quick camera access.

The Xperia 10 VII comes in at 153 x 72 x 8.3 mm, making it a bit wider and shorter than the last model, and it weighs 169 g.

On the software side, Sony promises four years of OS updates and six years of security patches, which is a standout commitment in this price range.

Mid-range pricing, limited availability

Despite the above-mentioned design changes, the phone still clings to noticeable top and bottom bezels, and its availability outside Europe and Asia could be limited. This means the phone might not arrive in the U.S.

Pricing starts at around £399 / €449, and it ships in White, Turquoise and Charcoal black.

It won’t outshine flagship models, but as a reliable and thoughtfully improved mid-range option, it finally gives Sony’s 10 series some well-deserved attention.

I have a bunch of headphones at my disposal, but for the past year, two pairs stood out as the ones I grabbed most: Sonos Ace and AirPods Max.

The latter are exclusively used for travel, as Apple's ANC is unmatched for blocking out plane noise but AirPods Max are otherwise hefty and uncomfortable. On the other end of the spectrum, Sonos Ace are my favorite headphones to wear for comfort, although it feels like I'm compromising on sound quality and ANC at times.

I've been waiting for a pair of over-ear headphones to come along that strike a better balance between comfort, ANC, and sound quality. After about two weeks of testing the Sony WH-1000XM6, I think they finally fit the bill. They're more comfortable than AirPods Max, better sounding with stronger ANC than Sonos Ace, and have a best-in-class wired mode with a 3.5mm cable in the box.

Here's why the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are streamlining my audio listening experience by replacing a few pairs with a universal solution.

Sonos Ace still beat the Sony's in design and comfort

First off, let's give Sonos its flowers. The Sonos Ace are still the most comfortable pair of over-ears I've ever used, and they may have the best design on the market today. The oval-shaped ear cups are clean, the memory foam ear cushions are comfy, and the metal accents are premium.

I don't think the Sony WH-1000XM6 feel as fancy, but Sony's choice to go with plastic parts helps with weight — they're significantly lighter at 254 grams than the 312-gram Sonos Ace.

I have no issue with Sony's use of plastic; in fact, I think Apple's avoidance of plastic is severely holding the AirPods Max back. However, the matte finish on the WH-1000XM6 and the questionable ear and headband cushions could use work. Fingerprints and skin oils will make the Sony headphones look gross, seemingly out of the box. The cushions seem to wear easily, retaining their shape less than my year-old Sonos Ace.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 have better ANC and sound quality than Sonos Ace

Sound quality and active noise-canceling (ANC) on the Sonos Ace are passable, but it won't blow you away for the price. The more I use Sonos' ANC, the more I become overwhelmed. On a recent flight, I noticed some distracting static noise in one of the Sonos Ace earcups — more distracting and painful than the airplane turbulence I was trying to block out. It turns out, I'm not alone, as this issue only popped up recently for me, but it is well-documented on Reddit.

While I have no issues with the sound of Sonos' 40mm drivers powering the Ace, the static problems occurring with ANC finally pushed me to consider a switch. Luckily, my Sony WH-1000XM6 review loaner came in shortly after, and the difference was stark. The Sony headphones block out noise better than the Sonos Ace, with no static or hissing sounds to boot.

Static sounds aside, which might go away after a firmware update, there are a few reasons why ANC might be stronger on the Sony WH-1000XM6 than the Sonos Ace. For one, Sony equipped the WH-1000XM6 with 12 microphones compared to eight on the Ace. There's also a new QN3 processor specifically tasked with ANC on the WH-1000XM6.

However, I think the most impactful factor might be the seal that Sony's WH-1000XM6 create with your head while listening to music. These headphones have a higher clamping force than the Sonos Ace, and the ear cushion material feels like it "sticks" to the side of your head to make a solid seal. Meanwhile, the vegan leather ear cushions on the Sonos Ace — while comfy — don't create the same experience.

All told, I like the sound quality of the Sony's a bit more than the Sonos Ace. Music sounds louder and fuller without losing crispness or clarity, and the out-of-the-box sound signature is excellent.

Sony's wired headphone mode is better than Sonos'

Sonos supports wired mode on the Ace using both the USB-C port and 3.5mm jack, whereas Sony only supports the latter. This doesn't tell the whole story. When you use the Sonos Ace with a cable, you're bypassing the headphones' internal DAC and using the one in your device. As it turns out, the Sonos Ace are quite difficult to drive, so your phone or media player will probably struggle to deliver great volume with a cable.

In my experience using Sonos Ace wired with various Android phones and an iPod, I'd get roughly half the volume that I would using Bluetooth.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 stands out in this area, producing an even louder music listening experience with a cable. I don't think they sound as good with the included 3.5mm cable as they do wirelessly, likely for the same reason that the Sonos Ace sound quiet in wired mode — both bypass the headphones' DACs. But the WH-1000XM6 seem to be easy to drive, making the Sony's a better fit for wired use.

Until we get a Sonos Ace 2, I'm sticking with Sony

Sonos Ace are starting to prove that the best headphones can't be great on design and comfort alone. I'd love to see a new model soon with improved sound and ANC, and it might even be worth picking up a current pair on sale. Being that the Sony WH-1000XM6 are better in almost every way, I'm sticking with them for now.

What you need to know

• Sony CFO Lin Tao confirmed the company plans to continue supporting Xperia phones.
• Tao called communication tech a vital part of Sony's long-term business focus.
• Sony has recalled some Xperia 1 VII units in Japan due to a major shutdown bug.

Whenever we talk about Android smartphones, the brands that usually come to mind, at least in the U.S., are Samsung, Google, and Motorola. There was a time when other brands like LG, HTC, and even Sony Xperia were part of the conversation. But most of these companies have either exited the smartphone space or stopped selling their devices in the U.S.

At one point, it even seemed like the end of the road for Sony, especially when the company began outsourcing Xperia smartphone production to third-party manufacturers. However, it looks like Sony isn't done just yet.

During the financial results call this week in Japan, Sony CFO Lin Tao stated that the smartphone business is "an extremely important business for us" and that the company intends to "nurture" it (via CNET Japan).

Xperia lives on, at least according to Sony

Tao emphasized that "communication technology" is a key area Sony has cultivated for a long time and that it wants to continue valuing its smartphone business.

This statement comes on the heels of a recent issue, where Sony had to recall units of the Xperia 1 VII in Japan due to a shutdown bug. Tao opened the earnings call by saying, "We apologize for the huge inconvenience to our users," but also reiterated the company's continued focus on smartphones.

Since the issue first surfaced, the company has started replacing the affected Xperia 1 VII devices.

That said, Xperia smartphones have struggled, even in Sony's home market of Japan, where Google's Pixel lineup has gained significant traction. While Sony continues to offer features like a microSD card slot and a 3.5mm headphone jack, even in its latest flagship phones, the high price of Xperia flagships has been a major barrier for many buyers.

The company still sells select Xperia models in global markets like Europe, but they remain a rare sight.

So what does Tao's statement really mean? Well, your guess is as good as ours, but it does seem like Sony isn't giving up on smartphones just yet.

What you need to know

• All 32 NFL teams are getting Sony-made headsets starting with the 2025 season.
• These headsets survived serious testing, like stadium noise over 100 decibels, harsh weather, drops, and sweaty sidelines.
• Sony borrowed noise-canceling tech from its WH-1000XM6 headphones, so expect crystal-clear communication in noisy surroundings.

Sony has teamed up with the National Football League to develop a new set of custom headsets, and coaches of all 32 teams will be strapping them on starting with the 2025 season.

The headsets were put through the wringer during the 2024 season, with real-world testing involving multiple NFL teams. Sony said it worked directly with coaches and league officials to make sure these could stand up to the demands of game day. That meant simulating stadium noise (100+ decibels), drop tests, and even exposure to sweat, rain, and extreme temperatures.

Borrowing tech from its popular 1000X headphone line (the same one behind the WH-1000XM6), Sony injected its noise-canceling know-how into these sideline headsets. The mic is custom-built to cut through sideline noise and automatically mutes when flipped up.

“While this headset is built for the field, it’s backed by decades of audio innovation at Sony," said Neal Manowitz, president and chief operating officer of Sony. "The knowledge we’ve gained from developing products, like our WH-1000XM6 headphones, shaped our thinking on how to deliver clarity, focus and performance in even the most challenging environments. It’s a powerful example of how our expertise translates into real-world solutions for the modern game.”

Built for chaos

The noise cancellation is fine-tuned for stadium environments, and the whole thing is designed to stay comfortable for hours. The mic also auto-mutes when lifted, which is a nice touch for those heated mid-game rants.

The official rollout kicks off with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on July 31, 2025. After that, the headsets will be a fixture for every preseason and regular-season game. Feedback from coaches will continue to shape future versions.

This marks another step in Sony's ongoing partnership with the NFL to advance technology both on and off the field. Sony's high-end tools are set to become a core part of game day, with Hawk-Eye helping referees make tighter calls, new sideline tech rolling out, and advanced visuals powered by its imaging system and Beyond Sports platform.

Right now, everyone's talking about Sony headphones. The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones just launched, and the older WH-1000XM5 model is actually the better Amazon Prime Day deal. But if you love Sony audio products, the best Prime Day deal slashes $102 off the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds. I review headphones and earbuds for a living, and at their Prime Day deal price of just $198 the Sony WF-1000XM5's are a steal.

With the WF-1000XM5 earbuds, Sony scaled down its insanely-good audio quality and ANC into a compact form factor. They're 25% smaller and 20% lighter than the older model, for instance. They're smaller in size, but not in features — these earbuds have three microphones per side, and two processors that individually handle sound and active noise-canceling.

If you need a pair of stellar wireless earbuds with ANC, the Sony WF-1000XM5 can go toe-to-toe with the best from Apple, Bose, and others. Only now, this Prime Day deal makes them much more affordable, and it won't last long.

• Prime Day ends tomorrow! See the full list of deals at Amazon

Aside from the great sound quality and noise cancelation, we love how much the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds feel like an audiophile-grade product. You get fantastic EQ and customization options in the Sony Headphones Connect app. You also have unique audio modes like Sony's 360 Reality Audio and an ear tip fit test to make sure they fit just right in your ears.

Sony also has standout support for Bluetooth audio codecs, which audiophiles will love to hear. SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 are all available on the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds. Specifically, LDAC is a proprietary Sony codec that can handle 24-bit/96kHz sample rates at a bitrate of up to 990kbps. In layman's terms, the Sony WF-1000XM5 could quite literally sound better than any other pair of wireless earbuds on the market.

Whether you're looking to shore up your travel gear during Prime Day or just need an audio refresh, the Sony WF-1000XM5 are such an underrated buy this time of year. At under $200, these earbuds can hang with the best of them.

Prime Day 2025 Android deals — quick links

• Prime Day ENDS tomorrow: see the full list of Amazon deals
• Phones: major discounts on Samsung and Pixel
• Tablets: discounted Galaxy Tab and iPad
• Wearables: up to %45 off Garmin watches
• Most Prime Day deals are members-only: sign up for the 30-day trial

What you need to know

• Sony is reportedly letting go of its smartphones, specifically, its flagship Xperia line, from its production facilities.
• The report claims Sony's Thailand and China factories have also removed the device, signaling its leverage of third-party companies for such work.
• Sony recently launched its Xperia 1 VII, which has allegedly been created through the company's outsourced assistance.

Information from overseas sources reportedly states Sony is no longer interested in manufacturing its Xperia line itself.

This report was made by Smartphone Digest (Japanese), stating Sony has removed all evidence of smartphone creation from its website (via GSMArena). This leads the publication to believe that Sony has completely moved away from manufacturing its Xperia phone in its own production facilities.

With this, it seems almost certain that Sony has opted to "outsource" the creation of its Xperia phone line to third-party companies. The publication mentions that Sony has done this before, just not with its flagship series. The Japanese OEM's mid-range devices have had their production outsourced for a while, but Sony has remained adamant (until now) to keep its Xperia close to heart.

Its research adds that not only has Sony removed all mentions of its smartphone devices from its official website, but sites from its overseas plants in Thailand and China have also dropped it.

While the future of Sony's Xperia line seems to fall on third-party sources, it's also reportedly looped in the Xperia 1 VII, per reports.

The Latest from Sony

Sony's Xperia 1 VII launched earlier in May with a strong focus on its available camera selection. The phone features a triple camera array with a 52MP primary lens leading it off. This camera is joined by a 50MP secondary lens and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. Sony continued to feature its Alpha-powered tech and ZEISS for the cameras, as it has done with its previous generation.

Sony's flagship phones rock Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip with a 6.5-inch display with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio.

Another shining highlight for the Xperia 1 VII is Sony's software commitment. The company states the phone will receive four years of major OS upgrades and six years of security updates.

For now, the future of Sony's Xperia series seems relatively the same as before, barring the company continues development before leaning on third parties. However, the Japanese publication's report says there has been a rise in consumer concern about Sony's move. Some have questioned the future of the Xperia's quality, but only time will tell.

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What you need to know

• Sony announced its new WH-1000XM6 headphones that take a strong focus on the noise-cancellation aspect of audio.
• The company says its stretchable ear cups should limit fatigue over long periods of use, but they also enhance the noise-cancellation aspect of the device.
• The headphones feature 12 microphones that work to automatically adjust your sound, so users remain immersed in audio without disruption.
• The WH-1000XM6 is available today (May 15) in black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue for $449 ($599 CAD).

Sony's latest wireless headphones are here, and they've arrived with a mechanism that makes their transportation a whole lot easier.

In a press release (via PR Newswire), Sony highlighted the launch of its WH-1000XM6 headphones. The company mentions a few key aspects about the device, most notably its "premium sound." According to Sony, its latest headphones were created alongside the music industry's top recording studios, like Sterling Sound, Battery Studios, and Coast Mastering.

Regarding the device, Randy Merrill, mastering engineer from Sterling Sound, said the headphones "transport me to a different world with their excellent bass, frequency response, soundstage and detail and truthfully represent the sounds of the recordings that we work so hard to make."

Internally, the headphones are powered by Sony's HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3. The processor is said to achieve speeds that are "seven times faster" than its previous edition. Moreover, the WH-1000XM6 features 12 microphones (not a typo). Sony says this helps bring about a leap in noise-cancelling performance, as each mic adjusts your device for more immersive listening in noisy scenarios.

The headphone's Auto Ambient Sound mode will adjust your audio to the sound around you, so you don't miss a beat. Sony says you can use its Sound Connect app to adjust these settings manually or let the headphones do it themselves.

Fold it up, take it with you

When it comes to Sony's design, the WH-1000XM6 feature a folding mechanism, which the post states its "durable." The fold makes the headphones a little smaller and more manageable inside bags or airplane pocket, per Sony. Consumers can also find these headphones with a new compact case with a magnetic lock.

The headphones themselves feature an "elegant, soft fit wider headband featuring synthetic leather ensuring a pressure-free fit." Sony highlights the ear cups, stating they have been outfitted with a stretchable material that shouldn't give consumers too much fatigue over long periods of use.

Additionally, there is a responsive touch panel and controls that let users quickly swap between the following modes: noise cancellation, ambient sound, and mute mic.

All in on Sound

Sony says its usage of "high rigidity carbon fiber composite material" and a new voice coil helps to bring out every note in your music. The post states voices should be clearer with more defined instrumentals. The headphones even support Edge-AI, which is said to return the full potential of sound that could've been lost during compression.

Feature-wise, the WH-1000XM6 delivers Quick Access and Scene-based Listening. Each can connect to your Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, or YouTube Music account.

The noise-cancelling headphones let users continue with their tunes even when plugged in (USB) for a charge. However, the headphones are said to last "up to" 30 hours on a full charge with their noise cancellation active. Sony states users can get roughly three hours of power in just three minutes.

As the WH-1000XM6 headphones launch today (May 15), Sony says you might see its ad campaign with the GRAMMY Award-nominated Post Malone. The artist states, "These new noise-cancelling headphones make you feel completely inside the music."

Sony's newest headphones are available in black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue for $449 ($599 CAD). Consumers can look for them on Amazon, Best Buy, or Sony.com and other retailers.

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What you need to know

• The latest Xperia is now official and it features a triple rear camera system with 52MP, 50MP, and 12MP lenses, plus a 12MP front camera, all enhanced by ZEISS optics and Sony Alpha technology.
• The device also equips a 6.5-inch 120Hz Full HD+ BRAVIA display, and is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite.
• It ships with Android 15 and promises four years of OS updates and six years of security updates.

It is that time of the year where Sony usually launches its flagship Xperia series, and the company has one this year, the Xperia 1 VII, which has just gone official.

Like conventional flagships from Sony, the latest Android phone also emphasizes camera, display, battery, with better sound quality taking the spot this year. Like its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VII comes with familiar specs that include the full 52MP (48MP effective) primary lens, another 50MP (48MP) secondary lens, and a 12MP ultra-wide angle lens. The front also equips a 12MP selfie shooter. The rear cameras are also ZEISS and signature Sony Alpha-powered, which has been the case for the past couple of generations of Xperia handsets.

The design, on the other hand, also appears familiar to the previous iteration; however, color options are limited to Moss Green, Orchid Purple, and State Black. The screen is a BRAVIA-powered 6.5 inch panel — a taller display with 19.5:9 ratio, Full HD+ resolution, and 120Hz refresh rates. The build quality includes Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and regular Victus for the back. Additionally, users can also experience IPX5/IPX8 water and IP6X dust resistance.

The Sony flagship is shipping with Android 15 with a promise of four-year operating system upgrades and six years of security updates. It is powered by Qualcomm’s latest and greatest Snapdragon 8 Elite coupled with 12GB of RAM and 256GB onboard storage, further includes support for expandable storage with up to 2TB micro SD. While the latter is pretty rare these days on any Android phone, another decent inclusion is the 3.5mm headphone jack that is still intact on the Xperia 1 VII.

Other notable features of the flagship include a 5000mAh battery capacity with support for Qi wireless charging and a promise of two-day battery life through a single charge. A high-quality sound with Sony’s proprietary WALKMAN DNA technology, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, and a vapor chamber cooler for a more hassle-free gaming experience.

The Xperia 1 VII is up for preorder in the U.K., retailing at £1,399 for the sole 256GB variant, which is slightly higher than Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is priced at £1,099 for the same storage variant.

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What you need to know

• Sony has confirmed that its next product launch will involve its Xperia smartphone line, which seemingly points toward the expected Xperia 1 VII.
• The company states its launch event will kick off on May 13 at 11 am JST (May 12 at 10 PM ET).
• Leaks from April suggest the Xperia 1 VII will look largely similar to the Xperia 1 VI with a 6.5-inch display, a triple camera array, and a 5,000mAh battery.

If you've been waiting for the next big thing from Sony, you're in luck because the company's new product launch is coming up fast.

Sony's Xperia page on X posted official confirmation of a "new product announcement" toward the middle of May (via GSMArena). The company doesn't offer much of a device teaser; however, it's clear by the name and the included photo that we're expecting a smartphone reveal. Sony states the reveal will take place on May 13 at 11 am JST (May 12 at 10 PM ET).

The company links users to its YouTube Premier set for next week, which gives us a little more to think about.

Accompanied by the "Next ONE is coming" tagline, Sony displays the outline of its next Xperia with one of its cameras. The close-up highlights the camera's FE 1.2/50mm lens before rolling into a few shots of the Xperia 1 VI. The teaser seemingly alludes to more camera enhancements with the expected Xperia 1 VII, stating, "True Quality. Real Emotions."

A few Xperia leaks

With the Xperia 1 VII around the corner, it's time to take a look back at a few leaks from April that might bring its offerings into perspective. To start, the phone's renderings seemingly surfaced, showcasing a design language similar to its predecessor, the Xperia 1 VI. However, the upcoming model looks slightly taller in its renders, and with a couple of noticeable chins above and below its display.

Thinner bezels line the sides, but the larger chins might be something to get used to if true.

Its supposed specifications include a 6.5-inch display with a purported 19.5:9 aspect ratio. Sony is expected to implement Android 15 in the Xperia 1 VII, as well as a 5,000mAh battery with 30W wired charging capabilities. The phone is said to feature a dedicated camera button along its right edge, with a volume rocker and power button.

A triple camera array is expected on its rear panel, like its past-gen version. Specs for those lenses weren't detailed; however, the Xperia 1 VI offered a 50MP primary camera, a 12MP telephoto, and a 12MP ultrawide.

AI was at the center of Sony's last Xperia, and it seems like we can expect more of the same this year, too. One of its main features was AF tracking with "human pose estimation." The device could track the human body and track it with "precision" even through objects.

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What you need to know

• The Xperia 1 VII is expected to maintain a similar design to its predecessor, featuring a tall display with noticeable chins and a triple camera array on the back.
• The phone could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and is likely to sport a 6.5-inch screen, dual front-firing speakers, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
• The device is anticipated to run on Android 15, include a 5000mAh battery with 30W fast charging, and is likely to launch in May.

It is that time of the year where some Sony phone enthusiasts expect this year's flagship phone from the company, dubbed Xperia 1 VII. Ahead of the anticipated launch, a new leak reveals the device through renders and gives away some of the specs as well.

The leak comes from prominent tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (aka OnLeaks) in collaboration with XpertPick, has shared high-quality renders of the upcoming Android flagship phone from Sony. Going by the renders, it appears the company is sticking to the predecessor Xperia 1 VI's design for the 1 VII too.

The phone appears taller with noticeable chins at the top and bottom of the display, while the side bezels seem negligible. On the right pane, we can notice the volume rocker, textured power button, and a dedicated camera button. The back panel also includes the familiar triple camera array as seen on the previous iterations.

While there aren't any notable visual changes on the upcoming Xperia 1 VII, the publication shares additional information about the handset, like its expected specifications.

The handset is expected to be powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite and will likely measure 161.9 x 74.5 x 8.5mm (approximately) — making it slightly thicker than the predecessor. The screen, however, is also predicted to be sporting the same 6.5-inch screen with a rumored 19.5:9 aspect ratio.

Further, the device is tipped to be featuring dual front-firing speakers and, in addition, users can also expect the good-old 3.5mm audio jack, which is sort of an Xperia exclusive parameter when it comes to flagship phones.

The handset is further expected to bank on Android 15 operating system out of the box and will likely be offered with a 5000mAh battery capacity and support for 30W fast charging. Lastly, going by the predecessor launch, the Xperia 1 VII is anticipated to be released sometime in May.

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What you need to know

• The Elec reports that Samsung's Project Infinite headset will use Sony-manufactured Micro-OLED displays.
• It reportedly measures 1.3 inches with a 3552×3840 resolution, or about 3800 PPI, similar to Sony's productivity headset.
• The site claims that Samsung intends to launch in the second half of 2025, producing 100,000 headsets per year.
• Apple and Meta are also reportedly working on high-resolution micro-OLED displays for future headsets.

Samsung Project Moohan may have one of the most pixel-rich displays on any XR headset. Sony will reportedly sell Samsung the same 4K display in its productivity XR headset, more than rivaling the gorgeous Apple Vision Pro display.

According to The Elec (via UploadVR), Samsung will use a 1.3-inch micro-OLED display that hits 3,800 pixels per inch.

The site reports that Samsung's display will have "similar specifications" to the Sony SRH-S1 headset's display, which has a 3,552 × 3,840 resolution, 1,000-nit brightness at 20% power, 96% DCI-P3 color gamut, and 90 FPS (according to Road to VR).

Compared to the Apple Vision Pro, Samsung's headset would hit nearly 2 million more pixels per eye (13.64 vs. 11.79 million), with 4% better DCI-P3 color fidelity and comparable FPS and brightness.

One obvious downside to the Sony ECX344A 1.3-type 4K display? Sony gave it a sample price of 150,000 yen (about $1,000) back in 2023; even before you take inflation and other headset components into account, it appears Project Moohan should cost much closer to the $3,500 Vision Pro than the $500 Meta Quest 3.

Case in point, the Sony SRH-S1 — which has the same Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chip and Android XR software as Moohan — will reportedly cost $4,750. That's partially because Sony is targeting the enterprise crowd, while Samsung will focus more on consumers; still, it's fair to wonder just how expensive Samsung's headset will be to hit this visual fidelity!

The Elec's report mentions that Apple is currently sampling a larger 2-inch display from various manufacturers (including Samsung Display), which would have a smaller 1,500 PPI but a wider FoV; its Vision Pro display also comes from Sony, and it's likely Apple will catch up with or surpass Samsung again with its next-gen headset.

The report also notes that Meta is speaking with China's Siya and Seedtech to create a 0.9-inch, 2,500 PPI micro-OLED display. We don't know if that would apply to the Meta Quest 4 or the oft-delayed Quest Pro 2.

Did Samsung make a mistake by trying to surpass the Vision Pro?

Back in 2023, a credible report claimed that Samsung delayed Project Moohan because it was so intimidated by the Apple Vision Pro's premium specs. It went back to the drawing board and — based on this new report — made sure that its display would beat Apple's before it launched Moohan.

In the interim, we've seen how the Apple Vision Pro blew up at launch but then failed to grow outside of the enthusiast sphere because of its high price and limited software. Now most leaks have it working on a more affordable headset in the $2,000 range.

Google will hopefully help to make Samsung's XR headset more compelling on the software front. Android XR will have popular Google apps, while OpenXR game support should bring beloved Quest 3 games to the headset.

But it won't matter if Samsung made the Project Moohan hardware so advanced to topple Apple that it prices the headset beyond what people will pay.

Samsung could never sell on the scale of the budget-focused Meta Quest 3S, but upcoming XR headsets like the $1,200 Valve Deckard and powerful ASUS ROG Tarius all seem to be targeting the higher end of the market — and Samsung's pricing could dwarf both, based on this incredible display tech.

This is all idle speculation until we know what Project Moohan will cost. The Apple Vision Pro reportedly cost $1,700 per headset, making its $3,500 price tag quite inflated; if Samsung has comparable components and a lower profit margin, it could still price Moohan to look more affordable.

Assuming Samsung can hit a competitive price tag, then Project Moohan will make 4K virtual-reality gaming with near-perfect color fidelity a reality for power users. So call us tentatively excited to see whether Samsung can pull it off.

We're also curious when Samsung will release it; based on The Elec's claim of the second half of 2025, we could see it at the summer Galaxy Unpacked alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Watch 8, or later on alongside its newest tablets in the fall.

What you need to know

• Sony’s latest mid-ranger is finally making the jump to Android 15, keeping up with its promise of three major OS updates.
• The update (build 70.1.A.0.425) is under 1GB, though Sony hasn’t shared a detailed changelog.
• Expect Private Space, UI tweaks, Bluetooth LE Audio broadcasting, pop-up windows, and more.

The Sony Xperia 10 VI is now getting the much-awaited Android 15 update, adding it to the list of Sony phones that have already made the leap to the new OS.

Sony's newest mid-range phone launched in June of last year running Android 14. A Reddit user has spotted that it's now making the switch to Android 15 (via GSMArena). This reaffirms that Sony is keeping its word on delivering three major Android upgrades for this device.

The Xperia 10 VI’s Android 15 update is rolling out with the build number 70.1.A.0.425, and it’s a lightweight download at under 1GB. Sony hasn’t dropped a detailed changelog, but chances are it’s packing the same goodies as other Xperia models that already made the jump to Android 15.

Sony has now brought Android 15 to five Xperia phones since last year, with the Xperia 10 VI being the latest. Even with a smaller lineup, Sony stays committed to keeping its devices up to date. Meanwhile, Samsung is dragging its feet on pushing One UI 7 to its older flagship phones.

The Xperia 10 VI’s Android 15 update packs a bunch of features that other Sony phones have already been enjoying. You’ll get Private Space for tighter security, updated Wallpaper & Style choices, tweaks to Side Sense, a revamped Quick settings panel, Bluetooth LE Audio broadcasting, handy pop-up windows, and some SIM setting adjustments.

All the details about the Android 15 update for the Xperia 10 VI are now live on its support page.

The Xperia 10 VI’s latest OS update is rolling out just three weeks after the Xperia 10 V got its turn. It’s a bit surprising, though, since the 10 VI is the newer model—you’d think it would’ve been first in line. Either way, both phones are now on board with the latest software.

These phones are set to get Android 16 and maybe even Android 17. Sony is also keeping the security patches coming for years.

The Sony WH-CH720N are my personal favorite noise-cancelling headphones for folks on a budget, and I can't believe the amazing deal that October Prime Day has just thrown on them. 

During the Big Deal Days, you can get the Sony WH-CH720N with a 41% discount, knocking the price down to just $88. That's the best deal we've ever seen for these headphones, so go check them out before the sale ends tonight. 

This lightweight pair of Sony headphones offer a snug fit, up to 35 hours of battery life, and support hands-free Alexa or Google Assistant. They're one of the best headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) under $200, and it's a sweeter deal if you grab them on Prime Day.

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✅Recommended if: you want lightweight headphones that are comfortable; you want good ANC performance on the cheap; you need stellar battery life.

❌Skip this deal if: you want something that feels premium; you need wear-detection sensors; you need something the folds to a smaller size.

I've been personally using the Sony WH-CH720N for more than a year as my everyday work headphones, and I absolutely love them. I don't mind the slightly plasticky feel since they're only worn indoors, and the lightweight construction with long battery life are perfect for my needs. ANC performance is good too, but obviously not as good as Sony's more premium WH-1000 series. Audio quality is quite solid with good bass, detailed mids, and clear highs without being too shrill. The physical buttons are also large and easy to identify just by touch, once you learn the lay of the land.

The Sony WH-CH720N have always been excellent value for money headphones, and its even better if you can grab this Prime Day deal. This is the lowest price we've seen for these headphones on Amazon (or anywhere for that matter), so make sure you grab it before it's all gone.

Prime Day is always a good time to hunt down OLED TV deals, but even I'm surprised by the discounts on display during this week's Prime Big Deal Days event. 

While most of the attention so far has been drawn towards Amazon's epic LG OLED discounts (rightfully so), you should know that the top-rated 65-inch Sony Bravia 8 OLED TV has just received its own record-smashing 32% price drop — and you don't even need to be a Prime member to receive the savings. 

• See all the October Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India 

A Prime Day deal for the history books

If the 65-inch smart TV isn't right for your home, fear not: the 55-inch and 77-inch models are receiving 22% and 10% discounts, respectively, so take your pick. 

Like all of the best Android TVs out there, the Sony Bravia 8 (2024) was specifically designed with gamers and movie lovers in mind. The AI-powered XR processor optimizes all of the images in real time so the brightness, color, and contrast are as immersive as possible, while Sony's Acoustic Surface Audio Plus technology delivers cinema-quality sound, even when you aren't using one of the best soundbars. 

Want a cheaper alternative?

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It's the second day of Prime Day 2024 festivities and you might be nearly out of cash to shop. Don't worry, these mind-blowing Bluetooth speaker deals get as cheap as just under $30. So why don't you skip takeout and eat at home for a day or two? That's all the cutting back you need to be able to afford these deliciously cheap deals on high-end speakers.

Of all these discounts, my favorite deal is the JBL Go 3 Bluetooth speaker selling for a mere $29.95 at Amazon. Although the newer model is now out, the Go 3 continues to be one of the most popular cheap Bluetooth speakers of all time. It comes in a wide range of cool colors and patterns, you get robust IP67 water and dust resistance, and there's a handle built on top of this positively tiny accessory.

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Bluetooth speaker under $30

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Still have cash to blow but not sure what you're going to do with it? Continue browsing! There are loads of amazing Prime Day deals for Android fans out there, from flagship phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 to smartwatches like the OnePlus Watch 2. Get all your tech for less before the sales run out.

What you need to know

• An IDC analyst shared in a Bloomberg newsletter that sales for Sony's smartphone business dropped 40% last year.
• The drops are expected to continue as Sony's Xperia brand struggles to compete with the likes of Apple and Google.
• Sony is teasing the launch of a new Xperia phone during a May 15 announcement, and it is rumored to be targeting more of a mainstream audience. 

Sony is just days away from launching a brand-new Xperia phone, and this reveal sounds like it will have a big impact on what mobile offerings from the company will look like moving forward. Per rumors and leaks, the smartphone is expected to depart somewhat from Sony's typical strategy for handsets, which is to lean into the company's photography prowess and target the niche and premium markets. The strategy shift comes as Sony's mobile sales continue to take massive hits, according to data shared in a Bloomberg newsletter.

Masafumi Inbe, an analyst for IDC, spoke to Bloomberg about Sony's struggles with Xperia, which have stretched even to its home market in Japan. Apple has a powerful user base in Japan and found success in bringing the iPhone to that market. Now, part of Google's plan for growing Pixel is to target markets like Japan, too. 

Sony isn't a household name in smartphones anymore, and these developments further worsen its standing in the market. The company isn't one of the leaders in smartphone shipments, and it's going backward rather than forward. Part of the reason may be the direction of the Xperia brand, which is only appealing to a small number of people. 

However, switching things up and making the next Xperia 1 VI more mainstream might not be the answer. If Sony can't compete with the major brands while offering a unique smartphone, why would it compete with a device that feels like a carbon copy of all the others?

Sony's mobile sales are falling, fast

The global smartphone market has experienced frequent dips and peaks over the last few years, largely related to the fluctuating economy and world events. But Sony's mobile sales aren't just slightly down compared to past years; they're down significantly. According to Inbe, Sony's mobile sales dropped by 40% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

A similar cratering is expected this year, Inbe says, which doesn't bode well for the future of Sony's mobile offerings. If sales were to decline by a total of 80% over the course of two years, it would be disastrous. 

Inbe cites Sony's poor performance in Japan as one of the bigger reasons to sound the alarm. Sony sells about 1 million phones each year in Japan, Inbe says, where a total of 30 million smartphones are sold annually. 

Sony doesn't report smartphone sales figures individually in its financial reports, which makes it hard to get a complete picture of the business. However, it's clear that mobile devices aren't a core business for the company in 2024. Still, Sony hasn't shown any signs of backing out of the smartphone market.

"We recognize that our mobile communications business is not only a handset business, but also a business with important communication technology that contributes to the entire Sony Group," a Sony spokeswoman told Bloomberg.

"We believe that the communication technology we hone with smartphone technology is a necessary element to connect creators and customers and to provide entertainment regardless of time and place."

Something has to give, and if the leaks are correct, that something will be Xperia strategy. While it seems Xperia's current positioning toward the ultra-premium camera lover isn't working, it's unclear what will work this late in the smartphone race.

The Sony Xperia brand targets a market that barely exists

In theory, Sony's plan for the Xperia lineup sounds great. The company already makes industry-leading cameras, so why not bring that down to the smartphone? Although it's a solid idea, it isn't working. That's because the Sony Xperia brand only caters to people in the middle of two big markets. 

People who don't care much about standalone cameras will just grab any flagship smartphone, as the camera in a Google Pixel 8 Pro or an iPhone 15 Pro Max will get the job done in most situations. On the other hand, people that really care about cameras will get something like a DSLR or mirrorless camera on top of their smartphone. The number of people who need more than a smartphone but less than a dedicated shooter has proven to be small, if Xperia sales are any indication. 

As an anecdotal example, I'm the exact kind of buyer who should find the Sony Xperia line appealing. I have a mirrorless camera — from Sony, evidently — that I use for work and a bit of play. I'm not a photography buff, so I use my Sony a6400 pretty much stuck on automatic modes. Even with all that said, I wouldn't replace my smartphone or my mirrorless camera with an Xperia. For my fairly basic needs, a Sony Xperia smartphone would be a worse smartphone and a worse camera than what I currently use. So, what's the point? 

The Zenfone 11 Ultra proves making Xperia mainstream won't solve anything

Unfortunately, I don't have a solution for Sony. It feels like, in 2024, there are only a handful of brands that can really compete for the mainstream market. Although it appears Sony will try to do just that with the next Xperia, that might not be the best option.

We just saw Asus make a similar pivot with the Zenfone 11 Ultra, and the general consensus wasn't positive. Instead, it showed that Asus had given up a small but vibrant niche to become just like all the other flagship smartphones. And despite being one of the best Asus phones ever, the Zenfone 11 Ultra couldn't stand out.

If Xperia tries to compete on equal footing with Apple, Google, and others, it'll lose. The brand's only shot at this point is to stay the course and make niche, unique smartphones that actually cater to a tangible audience, and that's already turning into a losing battle.

What you need to know

• Sony's Japanese website teases the "Xperia Special Event 2024" in Tokyo, Japan on May 17.
• The name alone seems to tease a new Xperia launch, and a "product experience" is also listed in the schedule, furthering this suspicion.
• Sony has yet to announce a launch for the Xperia 1 VI, however, its predecessor was revealed in May 2023, so there's a possibility for the same this year.

Sony has started teasing a reveal regarding its Xperia flagship phone series as an event in May could hold its official launch.

Sony launched a new event splash page promoting the "Xperia Special Event 2024," which is set for May 17 in Tokyo, Japan (via 9to5Google). The details (machine translated) state "Xperia developers introduce the latest features" and that consumers can join in to see them in person.

The company highlights the event's itinerary, starting with a reception and then a welcome speech before rolling into a "product experience." While it's likely that this portion will reveal what "new features" Sony has in store for its Xperia line, it could also reveal its next flagship: the Xperia 1 VI.

Sony states that the event is limited to 100 people in Japan, and people have until April 30 to apply for a seat in the crowd.

Sony has yet to announce the existence of the Xperia 1 VI formally, but we have the Xperia 1 V to look back on. Last year's device, aimed at content creators, launched around May 11 — which is close to this year's planned "Xperia" event in Japan.

It's cause for excitement, but nothing is set in stone, so we'll have to wait and see.

Rumors have surfaced regarding the upcoming flagship entry, with some suggesting it could drop in display quality. It was stated that the Xperia 1 VI could lose its 4K resolution display in favor of a "2K Plus" or "Quad HD Plus" panel. The former is what the Xperia 5 series sports, which is usually seen as an alternative consumers can look to instead of the flagship Xperia 1 series.

More recently, supposed Xperia 1 VI renders leaked, and give us a look at an alleged change to its aspect ratio. The device seems to opt for a 19.5:9 ratio instead of the taller 21:9 ratio that the 1 V features. The renderings suggest Sony will continue its boxy design for the phone alongside a vertical triple camera array on the back panel.

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What you need to know

• Leaked renders suggest a potential shift in screen ratio for the Sony Xperia 1 VI, departing from the super tall screens seen in previous Xperia models.
• The design of the Xperia 1 VI maintains Sony's signature boxy style and features a familiar camera setup with vertically aligned lenses and the return of ZEISS branding.
• Dimensions provided by the leaker indicate that the Xperia 1 VI will be slightly thicker but also shorter and wider compared to its predecessor.

We already saw hints about the cameras and screen resolution of Sony's upcoming Xperia 1 VI, but now fresh renders show the phone's design, and it might ditch the super tall screen Xperia phones are known for.

Prolific leaker @OnLeaks dropped some sweet renders of the upcoming Sony Xperia 1 VI, giving us a good idea of what Sony's next flagship model looks like (via AndroidHeadlines). It looks like there might be a change in the screen ratio for Sony's flagship phones, judging from these images.

The design stays true to Sony's signature boxy style, just like we saw with the Xperia 1 V. And the camera setup at the back seems pretty familiar, with three lenses lined up vertically. Furthermore, the ZEISS branding appears to be making a comeback.

These renders give us a good look at the dimensions of the Xperia 1 VI, and it seems like we're dealing with a device that's pretty familiar in terms of size. The measurements come in at about 161.9 x 74.5 x 8.4mm, as per the leaker.

Those numbers might not mean a lot on their own, but when we stack them up against last year's Xperia 1 V, things start to get interesting. Compared to its predecessor, the new Xperia 1 VI looks like it'll be a tad thicker, but it'll also be a bit shorter and wider. So, we're looking at a more compact and conventional setup this time around.

With this slight size tweak, there's a chance the phone's aspect ratio could shift to 19.5:9. Now, there's been chatter that Sony might ditch the beloved 21:9 display for the first time since it introduced the Xperia 1 and Xperia 5 series back in 2019. If that turns out to be true, fans who dig that 21:9 aspect ratio might feel a bit let down by Sony's call.

Xperia phones have been rocking a 21:9 ratio for a while. But, with leaks hinting that Sony might be switching things up to a more standard 19.5:9 screen, like some of the best Samsung phones, it's starting to look like this change is pretty much locked in.

The new Xperia phone is also rumored to come with a 2K+ or Quad HD+ display, rocking around 3200 x 1440 pixels. That's a step down from the 4K panels we've seen in previous models.

The upcoming phone is also said to pack a 2K+ or Quad HD+ panel instead of a 4K panel in the previous models.

Pinning down the exact resolution just from a render might be a bit of a stretch. And as for that aspect ratio change we're speculating about based on the leaked Sony Xperia 1 VI render, well, only time will tell if it's the real deal.

What you need to know

• Rumors suggest Sony could keep the same camera hardware for its upcoming Xperia 1 VI.
• Such a move would see the device featuring the same 48MP primary lens, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and 12MP telephoto lens.
• There's speculation that Sony is more interested in boosting the device's image quality, and this could happen because it is leveraging new AI software.

Information is slowly surfacing about Sony's next flagship, and new rumors suggest some aspects could stay the same.

According to Smartphone Digest (Japanese), murmurings on Weibo state Sony's Xperia 1 VI might stick with the same camera tech as the Xperia 1 V (via GSMArena). The upcoming device may continue to feature a 48MP primary lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens.

Rumors add that the device's primary lens could adopt Sony's Exmor T sensor for mobile.

Supposedly, Sony is more concerned with the image quality of its Xperia 1 VI sensors as the company looks to leverage AI software. The publication states this stronger focus could result in the phone's camera performance in "auto mode."

The Xperia 1 VI was allegedly spotted receiving its FCC certification, as well. This could mean we're approaching its official launch, but we'll have to wait and see.

Last year's Xperia 1 V featured the same 48MP, 12MP, and 12MP triple array on its rear panel. A deeper look at the specifications shows that the primary lens features f/1.9 aperture and a 1/1.35" sensor, which is rumored to remain the same.

What's more, the Xperia 1 V was launched last year with an Exmor T sensor. This fact confirms speculation that any improvements Sony implements will be due to its internal software.

This second batch of rumors surfaced two weeks after the upcoming Xperia 1 VI was rumored to lose its high-quality display. Also, from Weibo, it was alleged that the device would drop from 4K resolution to 2K Plus. Additionally, a change to its form factor could shift the phone into a shorter and slightly wider design.

Sony is rumored to move away from its 21:9 aspect ratio in favor of a 19.5:9 setup.

Moreover, sightings about the phone's approval of FCC certification might line up with whispers about a May 2024 launch window. The Xperia 1 V launched in May 2023, so it would make sense if Sony did the same thing this year.

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What you need to know

• Rumors suggest the upcoming Sony Xperia 1 VI could ditch its predecessor's 4K resolution display panel for a "2K plus" or "Quad HD plus" panel.
• Other rumors suggest the device could become shorter and wider as Sony may opt in favor of a 19.5:9 aspect ratio.
• Sony launched the Xperia 1 V in 2023 with a 4K resolution panel, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, and a 48MP primary lens.

Rumors swirl regarding Sony's upcoming Xperia 1 VI flagship device and a potential dip in quality.

According to zackbuks on Weibo, Sony may drop its 4K resolution display panel on the upcoming Xperia 1 VI (via fonearena). Rumors suggest the device could drop down to the "2K Plus" resolution panel that the Xperia 5 series notably sported. The publication mentions another rumor, which states the device could receive a "Quad HD Plus" display instead.

The post speculates Sony may opt to make the upcoming Android phone a little wider in 2024 instead of last year's taller form factor.

The Weibo leaker states that this could be due to a change in aspect ratio. They purport that once it launches, the device may change from a 21:9 to a 19.5:9 aspect ratio.

Design-wise, the Xperia 1 VI isn't expected to change. The post claims Sony will look to keep the next-gen phone "similar" to its 2023 release. Its triple camera array is expected to remain, with other rumors stating it could contain three 48MP lenses.

Additional details about the device are unknown, however, there's speculation that it could launch in May.

The rumors end with speculation that Sony could move away from its Xperia 5 series altogether this year. The company launched the Xperia 5 V in September 2023, featuring its own downgrade through a dual-camera array. Despite the alteration, the device still packed the same camera sensor as its more expensive Xperia 1 V counterpart.

The alleged launch month for the Xperia 1 VI coincides with Sony's previous launch of the Xperia 1 V. The device debuted with a strong focus on its camera sensors for creators. The device's 4K display could reach a maximum 120Hz refresh rate. For its cameras, the 1 V offered a 52MP-equivalent primary camera, a notable jump from the series' old 12MP sensors.

Sony doesn't let users utilize the camera's entire strength, meaning they're only able to use 48MP of it. A 12MP ultrawide and a 12MP telephoto lens round out the array. More information about the upcoming Xperia 1 VI will likely surface as we move closer to its supposed launch.

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Sony launched the PSVR 2 on February 22, 2023, in pretty much ideal conditions. The aging Quest 2 and ancient Valve Index left impatient VR gamers in the right frame of mind for an upgrade, and the idea of PS5-powered experiences — with the graphics of PC VR but without the hassles and expenses — had us excited. But jump ahead one year later, almost no one talks about the PSVR 2 anymore, and for good reason. 

Right now, everyone thinks of the VR space as either Apple vs. Meta or Apple vs. the world. With the Apple Vision Pro making waves, most tech brands are pivoting to "spatial" headsets. That includes Sony, which spent CES 2024 announcing a new XR headset for serious productivity and ignoring the PSVR 2 entirely. 

When I reviewed the PSVR 2 last year, I praised the strong launch lineup, even if most games were revamped Meta Quest ports with better graphics and the added annoyance of a wire. My assumption at the time, though, was that Sony's "horde of valuable IP" would bring in more exclusives over time that Meta couldn't offer. 

Horizon Call of the Mountain, Resident Evil 4 and 8, and Gran Turismo add up to a fairly strong year on paper — if you ignore the fact that three are VR ports of existing titles. Other exclusives like Synapse, Humanity, and Firewall Ultra came out to middling-to-solid reviews, and we haven't had a non-RE PSVR 2 exclusive since August 2023, as far as I'm aware.

The real knife-in-the-guts moment, for me at least, was Sony's announcement a week ago that it won't release "any new major existing franchise titles next fiscal year" (per IGN). That means no potential VR spin-offs for titles like Spider-Man, Astro Bot, or God of War through mid-2025, either, unless Sony doesn't consider those to be "major." I'm not sure if that would be better or worse.

Right now, if I want to play a VR game, I pull out my Meta Quest 3, even if it's available on the PSVR 2 as well, and that's probably not going to change anytime soon. This has not been a good year for Sony's VR ambitions. 

A less-than-stellar year

Looking back at the original PSVR, Sony Interactive developed 12 titles (mostly free-to-play demos) and published another 23 from other studios — 12 in the first year. Currently, Sony has published three PSVR 2 games and developed none, according to Wikipedia data, and I doubt we'll see much more in the PSVR 2's second year. 

It's hard not to feel like Sony itself isn't as invested in VR this generation; either that or Meta's Oculus Publishing initiative is more attractive to developers. 

Beyond Sony's own efforts, more third-party developers experimented with VR during the PSVR's heyday. VR ports of Skyrim, Resident Evil 7, Star Wars Squadrons, Hitman III, Borderlands 2, and No Man's Sky Beyond make for an impressive list. You also saw some original spin-offs like Batman: Arkham VR, Doom VFR, Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin, L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files, and Until Dawn: Rush of Blood that got "casual" gamers excited to put on a headset. 

I'm not sure which specific franchises would give the PSVR 2 a boost; the PS5 is surprisingly light on first-person games. I personally think a God of War or FromSoftware game would convert well to VR, given how many great hack-and-slash games the Quest has. The same could apply to a FPS version of Returnal or The Last of Us — especially the latter with its slower-paced, visceral gameplay.

I think the bigger issue is best exemplified by Ubisoft's reaction to middling sales of Assassin's Creed Nexus VR. When major game devs make VR spin-offs of popular franchises that don't immediately sell in huge numbers, they pull back on VR investments, or abandon VR entirely as a fad. 

The gaming industry in 2024 has become increasingly dependent on AAA or microtransaction-filled games, trying to maximize profits for shareholders while laying off thousands of employees. In this climate, experimental AA games with a shorter profit ceiling don't make much sense, even if the Quest Store has earned smaller devs $2 billion in profits so far. 

That means Sony can't pack its headset with exclusives and well-known IPs, a strategy that made the original PSVR so tempting. Meanwhile, devs like Ubisoft and Capcom, which are still invested in VR, willingly downgrade their games graphically to get them on the Quest. 

Overshadowed by the Quest 3

If you compare the Quest 3 vs. the PSVR 2 in raw specs, you see how Meta made some innovations that immediately made Sony's headset feel a bit outdated. 

Sony's thicker fresnel lenses make the PSVR 2 more front-heavy with a noticeable sweet spot, while the Quest 3 is lighter and thinner with a better peripheral view thanks to its pancake lenses. Also, the PSVR 2 OLED display has about 400 fewer pixels per inch or five fewer pixels per degree than the Quest 3's LCD, though it does have richer colors. 

Even though I liked the PSVR 2's passthrough when it launched — especially the dedicated button for it — the Quest 3's richer, full-color passthrough supplanted it. I'm not saying Sony should have added mixed-reality tech to a wired headset, but I still prefer the Quest for checking my surroundings. 

On the other hand, I prefer the PSVR 2's halo strap to Meta's default cloth strap, plus perks like foveated rendering and not having to worry about the Quest 3's poor battery life work well in Sony's favor. But despite all that, the Quest 3's wireless design means not restricting myself to gaming in the living room, with fitness-focused games that Sony doesn't offer.

We don't have unit sales numbers, but public Amazon data over the holidays showed that the Quest 3 massively outsold the PSVR 2, helping Meta earn about $1 billion in combined Quest 2/3 sales from October to December. 

Aside from the Quest 3 being the shiny new device, Meta and its Reality Labs are clearly all-in on VR development, giving its headsets regular feature updates and spending billions on R&D for new tech like the Quest 4 and a brain signal-reading wristband controller.

Contrast that with how Sony has barely mentioned the PSVR 2 since launch, usually reserving only five minutes or so of its State of Play livestreams for VR games. Because to Sony, the PSVR 2 isn't a console; it's an accessory. 

Hoping for a better 2024

Sony celebrated its one-year anniversary with a blog post highlighting a few upcoming titles like Metro Awakening and Zombie Army VR, while surprising everyone with the news that it intends to add PC VR support to the headset sometime this year.

This, at least, finally makes it clear that Sony does intend to keep updating the headset in some capacity for diehard VR gamers, even if it's not at the same frequency or scale as Quest 3 updates. But it still feels like too little, too late, with Sony's real focus most likely on its new Vision Pro-challenging XR headset.

I only called the PSVR 2 "worth the high price" in my 2023 review because I had visions of Sony realizing VR's true gaming potential. It had shed the first PSVR's weird camera controller issues and last-gen graphics. It delivered some stunning PS5-quality VR graphics, while the Meta Quest's games looked straight out of the PS2 era. I assumed that the best was yet to come. 

And hey, maybe it is, if you're a fan of VR shooters like Metro Awakening. And we can hope Sony has more major VR announcements hidden up its sleeve. My guess, though, is that the PSVR 2's second year will have very few highlights and exclusives. And that's pretty damn disappointing. 

What you need to know

• Sony announced a new mixed-reality headset at CES 2024, due out later this year.
• It has 4K micro-displays, a Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, and two controllers: a smart ring and a handheld "pointer."
• It's designed for enterprise users building 3D objects for engineering or entertainment, and will likely cost over $1,000.

One year after using CES to show off its gaming-focused PSVR 2, Sony has announced a new mixed-reality headset for "spatial content creation" targeting pro 3D creators and the entertainment industry. Like most XR companies, it has the Apple Vision Pro in its crosshairs. 

Unlike the wired PSVR 2, Sony's "XR Head-Mounted Display," due out sometime in 2024, will use the Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 for a wireless design. Sony will also support "split rendering" between the headset and a connected computer to better handle 3D creation.

Samsung's long-rumored XR headset will also use the XR2+ Gen 2. It's only slightly faster than the XR2 Gen 2 found in the Meta Quest 3 for raw performance, but it's capable of running more cameras and supporting higher resolution. Still, Sony probably assumes that most people will use its headset while linked to a PC for extra power.

While the PSVR 2 used 4K-level OLED displays, Sony's new headset uses "OLED microdisplays" with 96% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, making it well-suited for professionals who need true color accuracy. 

Plus, the pancake lenses make this new headset less front-heavy, and the design lets you push the display up like flip-up sunglasses, letting you see people directly instead of relying solely on camera passthrough. 

Sony showed off two interesting controllers for the headset: a ring controller that lets you "intuitively manipulate objects in virtual space," and a more precise "pointing controller" that's fully held in your hand and has a touchpad element where your index finger sits.

Whereas the PSVR 2 relied on the connected PS5's OS and UI, this new Sony XR headset will have dedicated software for 3D creation co-produced by Semiens. The video above shows an idealized look at what kind of software the headset will offer, including "real-time, high-definition and realistic rendering of textures of 3D objects and facial expressions of human characters."

Unlike Apple with its Vision Pro, Sony isn't marketing this headset to the public. It's essentially an "Enterprise" XR headset, meant for serious engineers or Hollywood CGI studios that can budget for them. It's unlikely that the headset will support any of the popular PSVR 2 games you know and love, anyway.

In other words, it's not a headset that everyday people reading this will ever use. But it looks pretty darn cool, and it has us wondering whether "productivity XR headsets" are closer to reality than when the Meta Quest Pro failed to resonate. 

CES 2024's most overused buzzword may be "AI," but a close runner-up is "spatial computing." It's Apple's favorite term for the type of mixed-reality experiences the Vision Pro can deliver, which means most other VR or XR companies have fallen in line, using CES to hype up their own "spatial" tech. 

Sony is no exception. Its press release for the new XR headset is full of terms like "Spatial Reality" and "spatial recognition," all highlighting the next-gen nature of its tech. Essentially, it's a headset that not only lets you create 3D objects, but also lets those objects interact with your real 3D environment. In theory. 

Sony says it will reveal launch details like specs, pricing, and software compatibility later this year. But since Samsung's XR headset with the same Snapdragon chip is rumored to cost $1,000, we can assume Sony's headset — with its enterprise focus and extra peripherals — will cost even more, while still undercutting Apple's massive $3,500 price tag.

What you need to know

• Sony starts rolling out its Android 14 update for the Xperia 5 V in "batches," meaning everyone will not see it appear at the same time.
• The update brings "Flash Notifications" to users, while also letting them customize the color of their device's flash for such information.
• Other features include an "expanded" Nearby Share with Windows, Find My Device improvements, and more.

Sony is rolling out its Android 14 update to its flagship phone alternative, bringing several new features to its users.

According to Sony, the update is finally arriving on the Xperia 5 V after a couple of recent devices picked it up late last year (via GSMArena). Android 14 is arriving in stages for this device, meaning we won't all see it at the same time. Additionally, the download should be quite large, so be prepared for that.

The company's brief Instagram post explains users upgrading to Android 14 can expect "Flash Notifications." Essentially, users can enable their camera's LED flash or display to illuminate when receiving a notification. This also includes any pre-set alarms, too. Users will find 12 colors to select from when customizing their LED flash notifications.

What's more, Sony's Android 14 changelog glanced over a few more features included with the update. Customizable lock screen shortcuts arrive on the Xperia 5 V, giving users more agency over its information and wallpaper. Shortcuts such as "Do Not Disturb" and "Flashlight" can be placed above the permanent camera and voice assistant icons on the lock screen.

Additionally, users can customize the touch function of the "Do Not Disturb" shortcut, as well.

Android 14 on the Xperia 5 V adds an "expanded" Nearby Share feature. Users can now transfer files, images, and more to their Windows PC without a USB-C cable. If interested, you must download Nearby Share onto your PC before attempting to transfer your data to your computer.

Sony then highlights Android 14's revamped Find My Device app, which lets users quickly relocate their things so long as they are signed into a Google account. From the app, you can remotely lock your device and erase its data. More importantly, users can locate their Android tablets, earbuds, and Wear OS watches, as well.

Android 14 isn't quite a "flashy" OS upgrade, however, it does continue to refine the system with better customization and other tweaks. So, users can expect such upgrades after downloading, aside from Sony's highlighted features.

Sony's Xperia 1 V, with camera upgrades aimed at creators, received its minimalistic Android 14 update back in November. The company improved its bokeh mode and its Video Creator app, which is primarily used to edit recorded videos. Personalization, privacy, and security upgrades were packed into the update, as well.

The company's latest Xperia 10 V followed a few days after in November as the mid-range picked up various features similar to the Xperia 5 V.

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What you need to know

• Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus are rumored to use Sony's imaging sensors.
• However, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will continue with the flagship ISOCELL sensor.
• OnePlus recently tapped Sony for its first foldable and the recent OnePlus 12, featuring its LYT series of sensors.

The launch of the Galaxy S24 series is rumored to be just a month away, and we are already hearing what its successor will incorporate in terms of optics.

Samsung seems to be taking the same route as OnePlus as seen with the recent OnePlus Open and newly launched OnePlus 12, both of which include Sony's latest mobile imaging sensors. According to tipster Revegnus (@Tech_Reve), the Galaxy S25 and the S25 Plus will ditch Samsung's GN3 sensor in favor of Sony's.

The tipster doesn't specify the precise sensor that will be seen in the Galaxy S25 models, which is understandable since it's way too early to predict as the launch is more than a year away. However, the move away from its own sensors is still an interesting one for Samsung, although it may not be a complete departure for the S25 series.

The tipster notes that the Korean tech giant will continue using its own sensors for the Ultra model. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is still expected to equip Samsung's flagship ISOCELL sensor. The Ultra will likely equip a new or upgraded ISOCELL 200MP sensor that is rumored to be a 1-inch sensor with 0.8µm pixels and feature dual-pixel autofocus and in-sensor crop zoom, notes GSMArena.

We have heard about Samsung utilizing Sony's imaging sensor before; Revegnus earlier predicted the same back in June this year. Meanwhile, upgrading the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus models to Sony's imaging sensors is a significant move from the company, which could potentially result in better picture quality.

OnePlus has yielded excellent photos from Sony's LYT-T808 sensor for its first foldable phone, the OnePlus Open. The OnePlus 12, which launched in China this week, debuted yet another Sony flagship LYT-808 sensor and promises to bring exceptional image output.

Of course, it's just an early rumor for now, so we'll have to wait and see what Samsung brings with its flagship 2025 models. However, it if proves true, that means we'll likely have to put up with one more year of Samsung's tried-and-true GN3 sensor before we see any major changes.

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Not all audio sounds exactly the same, and it's not just because of the disparities between headphones. The Bluetooth codec also matters, and when you're talking hi-res codecs, like aptX HD, aptX Lossless, and LDAC, you start to see that earbuds are already on board supporting them. Not all wireless earbuds go that far, but this group certainly does.

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Why Bluetooth hi-res codecs matter

If you think of audio the same way you would a screen, you may see it differently. Much like HD, 4K, and HDR have altered how we watch video content — and what we're willing to accept because of it — the same could be said about audio playback as well. Like Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive (which includes aptX HD), aptX Lossless, and LDAC, Bluetooth codecs bring hi-res audio to the masses through support on both the device side (i.e., phones, streaming services, or music files) and the audio side (i.e., earbuds). Not every mobile device supports these codecs, nor does every service streaming music. A few exceptions include Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Apple Music, and Amazon Music Unlimited.

The whole purpose behind hi-res audio is to try and get your ears as close to what audio sounded like coming out of the studio — basically, the way producers intended. Lossless audio is defined as being recorded and mastered in better than CD quality at 20-bit/48kHz or higher. These codecs won't always get you way above that, but they are certainly doing better than the more compressed audio streams you often hear from the most popular services.

Sony has tried to do it with LDAC, its own codec that it licenses out to others, including some of the best wireless earbuds. The WF-1000XM5 are only one pair supporting it, with others doing the same, as seen on this list. Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive is already another standard for hi-res, given that it's basically two codecs in one, along with aptX Lossless through Snapdragon Sound setting another standard.

What you need to know

• Sony, alongside the Associated Press, has completed its second round of testing for a new in-camera authenticity marker for photos.
• Both sides aim to reduce the guesswork behind a photo's legitimacy for photos with a signature that will show AI played no role in its capture.
• Sony will look to roll this out in Spring 2024 with its next wave of premium cameras, however, it's not clear if there are plans to bring this to its flagship phones.

Sony is looking to get ahead of AI's advancements in photography by bringing in better authenticity in crucial moments.

According to a press release, Sony has completed its second round of testing for its in-camera authenticity technology in conjunction with the Associated Press. This new software is said to stamp a photo with a "machine-based digital signature, removing the opportunity for undetected manipulation at the start."

Ideally, this is to be used for reporters or journalists who want to cover their bases and toss away any unwanted doubt about the legitimacy of their photo. The post adds Sony partnered with Camera Bits to help with its capture authentication and workflow process. Moreover, this partnership between Sony, the AP, and Camera Bits brought notable software to the latter's Photo Mechanic tool.

This new digital signature is said to be preserved throughout its metadata editing process.

David Ake, AP director of photography stated, "Fake and manipulated images are a major concern for news organizations. Not only do they contribute to mis- and disinformation but ultimately, they erode the public's trust in factual, accurate imagery."

Ake added the AP is "proud" to be working alongside Sony to combat this problem. Sony's new in-camera authenticity software and C2PA authentication is staring at a Spring 2024 rollout with its next wave of premium cameras like the Alpha III, Alpha 1, and Alpha 75 III.

The company hasn't made it clear if it plans to bring this in-camera authenticity to its flagship Xperia phones in the future. Like many flagship devices, Sony will likely sport the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which is packed with AI advancements for imagery and videos.

During its launch, Qualcomm stated the chip would provide Android devices with "photo expansion," a feature that lets users tap generative AI to "intelligently" fill out a picture. The SD 8 Gen 3 also contains the company's "Video Object Eraser" tool that can remove an entire person from a video.

With so many ways AI can influence and change a photo, some concrete evidence that a photo is legitimate may bring relief to the "impact of altered or manipulated imagery in journalism," as hoped by Neal Manowitz, president and COO of Sony Electronics.

What you need to know

• Sony Xperia handsets are the latest in the lot to receive the Android 14 update.
• After Xperia 1V, Sony is rolling out the update to Xperia 10 V.
• The update brings improvement alongside new features like wallpaper customizations, lock screenshots, and more.

If you are a Sony Xperia 10 V user, you are in for a treat since the company has announced the rollout of the much anticipated Android 14 update. The mid-range handset, launched in June this year, is the second Xperia handset to receive the Android 14 update after Xperia 1 V users got it early this month.

With Android 14, Sony highlights some new and existing features that are available with the update, like the ability to find your Bluetooth-powered earbuds with the Find My Device app. Users can also spot their tablets or Wear OS-powered smartwatches within the revamped app or lock their devices and erase data remotely.

Sony also highlights the ability to send files, documents, and photos between their Xperia 10 V and Windows with Nearby Share. This is a feature that rolled out earlier this year for PCs, and users would also have to install the Nearby Share on their respective computers. The new ability aims to lessen your dependency on cables between devices for transferring such stuff.

There are new shortcut customizations available for users on their lock screen. While Pixel devices are limited to two customizable lock screen shortcuts, Sony is offering at least four of them, all of which are customizable. 

Users will take advantage of large screen real estate and create their preferred lock screen shortcuts like flashlight, Do Not Disturb settings, camera, and wallet, amongst others. Android 14 has a lot of customizable "Wallpaper & Style" features for the lock screen, which are now available for Sony Xperia 10 V users as well.

The Android 14 update also brings neat updates for Game Enhancer, Photo Pro, Video Pro, and external monitor apps for a better entertainment experience on Xperia devices. 

Lastly, according to GSMArena, the said update is bearing the 68.1.A.2.93 version and is rolling out to Xperia 10 V in Europe and the U.K. More regions are expected to join in the coming weeks.

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What you need to know

• Sony joins Samsung and Xiaomi in rolling out the Android 14 update, starting with the Xperia 1 V in Europe.
• New camera features included in the update are an improved bokeh mode for better portrait photos and the Video Creator app for editing videos into smooth movies.
• Android 14 brings additional personalization options, enhanced privacy and security, and accessibility features.

Sony is treating Xperia 1 V users in Europe and the UK to Android 14, with an improved bokeh mode for snapping better portraits as the standout feature.

In a brief announcement on its website, the company said that Xperia 1 V owners are first in line for Android 14, giving them a taste of the latest software before it hits other Sony phones.

The new update is a chunky 1.3GB download, labeled with version number 67.1.A.2.112. It not only brings all the cool Android 14 features but also packs the October 2023 security patch, beefing up your phone's security game. Just a heads-up, though: it's not the absolute latest; Google just dropped the November 2023 patch.

Sony's spin on Android doesn't come with many fancy changes compared to the versions already available on other models. For the Xperia 1 V, Sony is adding its improved bokeh mode, which debuted on the Xperia 5 V. This mode lets you blur the background to make your subject stand out. This feature works at 24mm and 48mm focal lengths, using the 52MP primary camera.

Sony also notes that the Video Creator app is now available on the Xperia 1 V, but it was already hanging out on the Play Store for this device with the previous Android version. So, no big news there if you've been keeping your apps updated.

Of course, Pixel phones already have the update, and other brands like Samsung and Xiaomi are rolling it out as we speak. Sony says it'll come to your phone in due time, depending on where you are.

Nonetheless, a broader release is expected in the next few days, unless any big hiccups come up. If you're rocking one of our favorite camera phones, keep an eye out; the new update might be knocking on your phone soon.

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What you need to know

• OnePlus and Sony have announced a new partnership on Weibo, bringing the new LYTIA image sensor technology to the former's flagship phone.
• Sony detailed the LYTIA image sensor, mentioning its strong focus on 50MP cameras, which the OnePlus 12 has been rumored to have.
• The OnePlus 12 may benefit from multiple HDR methods for better quality photos once it arrives.

OnePlus and Sony are teaming up to bring some bonus camera upgrades to the former's upcoming flagship device. Announced together on Weibo, the OnePlus 12 will benefit from Sony's new LYTIA mobile image sensor (via Android Authority). Packing this sensor onto the back of the upcoming device is said to be a "world's first" for the company, as OnePlus adds the "LYTIA light embodies beauty with light and opens up a new future for mobile imaging."

Sony had detailed its new expansion of LYTIA imaging sensors, which include several 50MP models and one 53MP model. The latter features a 1/1.4-inch-type sensor with a 2-layer transistor pixel structure that should capture more light in photos and boost the overall quality of nighttime shots.

The remaining 50MP LYTIA models offer a stacked CMOS image sensor, which boosts tonal expressions, all-pixel autofocus, and image quality when taking selfies.

Li Jie, president of OnePlus China, took some photos using the OnePlus 12 and its new LYTIA sensor, courtesy of Sony on Weibo. The photos appear quite sharp — even when zoomed in — and the colors continue to remain vibrant without much distortion or apparent downgrade in quality.

What's more, is that the previous rumors have suggested the sensor could be a 1/1.56-type sensor. If true, perhaps we're looking at the upcoming flagship featuring Sony's new LYT-700 model, but we should learn more as the launch draws near.

Elsewhere on the OnePlus 12's large circular camera array is rumored to be a 48MP wide-angle lens and a 32MP 2x optical zoom lens.

An announcement like this is the second to come from OnePlus and its next smartphone, as the company recently debuted its new 2,600 nit X1 LTPO display, courtesy of BOE. With such improvements in line for the company, we're (not so) patiently awaiting the full reveal of the device, which could happen sometime in January 2024 or perhaps sooner.

What you need to know

• Sony's new Xperia 5 V is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and includes the Xperia 1 V's Exmor T sensor for mobile.
• It does, however, only have two rear camera lenses: a 48MP main shooter and a 12MP ultrawide camera.
• The Xperia 5 V costs £849 in the UK and €999 in Europe, and will be available in select countries in Q4 2023.

The Xperia 5 series has proven to be a solid alternative for those who adore Sony's Xperia 1 series but are put off by the high price tag. The Xperia 5 V is the latest and greatest in the series, offering most of the features you love about the Xperia 1 lineup in a more compact and affordable package.

Sony's latest smartphone is a slight step down from the Xperia 1 V in size, camera array, and price, but shares the same flagship sensor. That means the Xperia 5 V's 48MP main camera boasts Sony's 1/1.35-inch Exmor T for mobile sensor, while the 12MP ultrawide sensor includes the 1/2.5-inch Exmor RS sensor. Sony claims its latest sensor lets in more light, so you can take clear and bright photos even in low-light conditions.

Unlike last year's model, the Xperia 5 V only includes a dual rear camera setup. While this may seem like a downgrade from its predecessor's triple-camera system, there is a silver lining for content creators. The phone's main camera has a trick up its sleeve: it can zoom in and out without losing quality, thanks to its ability to dynamically switch between 24mm and 48mm focal lengths. Meanwhile, the ultrawide lens has a focal length of 16mm for a spacious capture.

The Xperia 5 V's camera also promises to take stunning portraits, which should make it one of the best Android camera phones out there. It can make your skin look its best, according to Sony, and it also has a variety of colors and tones to choose from to match the mood of your shot. Additionally, its bokeh mode uses AI technology to create a natural-looking blur in the background, so your subject stands out.

For content creators on the go, the phone has a built-in "Video Creator" app with an automatic editing function. Just select the length of the clip, add your photos and videos, and the app will do the rest. You'll have a finished video in minutes, so you can share it with the world right away.

The Xperia 5 V's display uses Sony's TV BRAVIA X1 engine for mobile, which means you can enjoy stunning images even on such a small screen. Speaking of which, the device sports a 6.1-inch OLED display, just like the Xperia 5 IV.

Sony claims that the Xperia 5 V has improved battery performance, with "more than 50% of the battery remaining even after active use all day." The Japanese tech giant says the phone's improved power-saving technology reduces power consumption by approximately 20% compared to its predecessor.

And like the Xperia 1 V, the latest premium handset from Sony promises to give you a solid gaming experience with its Snapdragon 8 Gen2 processor, 120Hz display refresh rate, and a bigger heat diffusion sheet (40% larger than the previous model).

The Xperia 5 V will be available in select countries beginning in Q4 2023, with prices starting at £849 in the UK and €999 in Europe. It will ship in black, blue, and silver colorways.

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Mention Sony and Bose in any conversation about headphones and active noise cancelation (ANC), and those in the know will likely pick one or the other as the industry's best. Audiophiles might feel otherwise about who "the best" is, but the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45 were made for everyone.

This matchup has likely forced some people to make a decision one way or the other. It's not like there's a bad pick between them, just one that feels right. Breaking things down between them shows there's plenty to like with both.

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. Bose QuietComfort 45: What do they offer?

Neither brand has to prove what it can do, but the beauty in both products here is that you get plenty for what you pay for. For Sony, it had to find ways to improve the WH-1000XM5 in ways that set it apart from its predecessor. That included newer design tweaks to make them lighter and more comfortable, as well as making a larger carrying case to accommodate them when folded flat. It also equipped them with better microphones — and coupled with Sony's V1 and QN1 chipsets — only improves already outstanding ANC performance. 

For Bose, the QuietComfort (QC) 45 follows up on perhaps one of the most popular headphone pairs of the last several years: the QC 35 II. There's a four-year gap between the QC 35 II and QC45, though they share many of the same design points, establishing continuity for those looking to upgrade from an older pair. The QC 45 have also improved on the incredible ANC of previous pairs, which is what makes this head-to-head all the more interesting.

That also extends to the superb audio quality both offer, which you can always adjust using Sony's Headphones Connect app and Bose's Music app. Onboard EQs let you choose from presets tuned for you or create custom ones you prefer, giving you a lot of flexibility in how you tailor the sound for particular genres, if you want.

Then you have phone and video calls. While neither is what you could consider an "office" headset, they're highly capable in the workplace because they amplify voices while tamping down background noise. Even if you wanted to wear either pair to watch a show or movie, you can't go wrong, regardless of whether it's a wireless or wired connection.

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. Bose QuietComfort 45: How do they differ?

It's interesting that Bose prefers to leave ANC or Aware mode on at all times. You get to cycle between them, but you can't turn them both off. Sony lets you do that if you neither want to block the background nor let it pass through. This has implications for battery life that aren't insignificant, as in how the WH-1000XM5 can outlast the QC 45 by as much as eight hours per charge, depending on volume levels. 

ANC performance is so close between these two that it's hard to call a clear winner on that alone. However, there are nuances that eke out separation between them. One is how Sony's WH-1000XM5 redesign addressed passive isolation, meaning a tighter seal around your ears already achieves half the battle of muffling background noise. While the QC 45 are comfortable, you may find the cushioning isn't as thick to get the same result. 

To be fair, it's a highly subjective point because everyone's ears are different, but it's also hard to tell fully when Bose doesn't offer an "off" switch for ANC or Aware. The beauty of this matchup is ANC is so good on both pairs that they impressively reduce mid and high frequencies to levels rarely seen in other pairs. To say they're remarkable in that regard wouldn't be an understatement.

Ancillary features, like Sony's 360 Reality Audio — another way of saying "spatial audio" — are also a matter of taste and compatibility. Bose doesn't offer spatial audio support, focusing more on general audio quality instead. The WH-1000XM5 support LDAC, so we have one hi-res Bluetooth codec on the board, whereas Bose has none. It's all AAC and SBC, otherwise, with Qualcomm's aptX nowhere to be found from either brand. Mind you, if you want to listen to wired playback, you could always use a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to get hi-res playback that way. 

You may also want to be careful using either of these in a gym or out on a run because they don't have the ruggedness for it. Few over-ear headphones do, so it's not a knock on Sony and Bose, just that for the costs involved, you may not want to risk it. Both warranties don't cover damage caused by water or sweat.

There may not be any significant advantage either way when it comes to the onboard controls. Sony uses a mix of buttons and sensors, and the WH-1000XM5 indeed have some of the best wear sensors available. The audio pauses just as soon as you lift one of the cups off your ear. Bose purely uses physical buttons, though does have wear sensors that are equally impressive.

Sony WH-1000XM5 vs. Bose QuietComfort 45: Which should you buy?

We're also talking about two of the most travel-friendly over-ears you can find. You would have a hard time finding other pairs that can drown out the drone of an airplane the way these do. The QC 45 are easier to pack up and slip in their carrying case, but it's not a big enough difference to sway things one way or another.

You will pay less to get Bose's pair, but we can't find much fault in paying a little premium for the WH-1000XM5. No matter what your budget and ears prefer, buying either the Sony WH-1000M5 or Bose QC 45 means you should be set for years before you feel it's time to upgrade.

What you need to know

• Leaker @Zuby_Tech posted video and screenshots of Sony's upcoming cloud gaming handheld device.
• Video of the Project Q prototype shows Android's famous 3-button navigation bar, revealing that it runs off of some version of the software. 
• Project Q will let you Remote Play PS5 games. It has an 8-inch 1080p display, supports 60FPS, and has the same grips and functionality of a DualSense controller.

We're currently seeing an influx of mobile game streaming consoles like the Logitech G Cloud and Razer Edge that run on Android. Sony's upcoming mobile gaming device isn't like these, since it isn't designed to play Android games. But it does use the Android operating system. 

A recent tweet from "tech enthusiast" @Zuby_Tech on Twitter (or X, as it's called now) shows a leaked version of Sony's Project Q gaming handheld. In the video, it shows a touchscreen interface and Android's trademark three-button navigation bar. 

The software shown in the video is obviously not meant for consumer eyes, and the final version should show a more polished, consumer-friendly UI that prioritizes your PS5 game library. 

It's no surprise that Sony would use Android for a mobile device, given its years of experience selling Android phones like the Xperia 1 V. Although their mobile and PlayStation divisions likely don't have much overlap, Sony can still pull from its own resources rather than build a new operating system from scratch.  

This leak has gamers speculating on whether or not hackers will be able to access this software in order to sideload other games and apps on Project Q, not just PS5 Remote Play games. We'll find out when the device launches in late 2023 (based on current Sony projections). 

But as this device is designed to run games from a PS5, which will handle most of the computing from afar and stream it to Project Q, it's unlikely that this tablet will have much internal processing power for any other apps. 

The device itself looks a lot like Sony split the DualSense controller in half, then attached either end to a small Android tablet. A lot of the best Android game controllers mirror this design, sliding open and enveloping Android phones so you can hold them like a Nintendo Switch. That includes the official Backbone One PlayStation Edition controller.

Considering you can already Remote Play on Android or iOS with your own phone or tablet, it's not clear how big the market for Project Q will be. But it may appeal to PS5 owners who want a dedicated handheld instead of burning through their phone battery on gaming. It will depend a lot on how much the device costs.

What you need to know

• Sony launched its WF-1000XM5 earbuds with a glossy textured design with a curvature made to fit in-ear comfortably.
• Two processors are built-in to provide strong noise cancellation which can adapt to changes in environmental sound.
• The buds offer 8 hours of battery and, when combined with the case, will yield an additional 16 hours.
• The WF-1000XM5 can be pre-ordered today for $299 in silver or black.

Sony has launched its new WF-1000XM5 TWS buds today and we're able to get a good look at its updated design and features.

Sony announced the availability of its new WF-1000XM5 buds on Twitter with some shots of its new curved design. The latest device has been outfitted with a glossy texture and a shape that "matches the human ear." Sony states that WF-1000XM5 users should find stability, security, and comfort while wearing it for lengthy sessions.

The company also provides a few extra ear tips in the box, including an extra small version.

For its sound, the WF-1000XM5 contains two processors that are said to reduce more external noise than the brand's previous iterations. Sony states that its in-house made Integrated Processor V2 is what fully unleashes the noise canceling potential of the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e.

Each earbud contains three microphones to improve low-frequency cancellation performance. This also allows the WF-1000XM5 to adapt to environmental changes while keeping its quality noise-canceling capabilities. 

The new Dynamic Driver X has been reworked to provide more accurate low-frequency audio, as well. This new driver will let users experience "richer vocals and enhanced fine details." The WF-1000XM5 supports High-Resolution Audio Wireless thanks to its LDAC codec.

This allows the buds to provide a richer audio experience over the standard Bluetooth connection TWS buds typically follow.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 can detect vibrations in a user's speech to enhance their call clarity. The company states its Precise Voice Pickup technology can isolate a person's speech so they're clear even when their backgrounds are hectic. Additionally, nodding your head or shaking it will decide whether a call is answered or rejected.

Moreover, users will find some simple touch controls via the left earbud, allowing them to go from noise-canceling mode to ambient sound. More is available to be customized through the Sony Headphones Connected mobile app.

Users can also take advantage of Speak-to-Chat. Sony states its buds will automatically pause a user's music as you begin speaking so you can enjoy a conversation clearly without having to spend time pausing the sound themself.

On a single, full charge, the Sony WF-1000XM5 can last for 8 hours. However, with the charging case on hand, this gives you an extra 16 hours, bringing its total to 24 hours. A three-minute charge is said to provide the buds with around an hour's worth of battery, as well.

Furthermore, the WF-1000XM5 are Qi technology compatible meaning users can wirelessly charge their case. The case also supports battery sharing with some of Sony's most recent Xperia model phones.

The WF-1000XM5 has received a water-resistant rating of IPX4 to keep sweat and water at bay.

Lastly, users can pair their WF-1000XM5 with two devices at once. This means users can swap from their laptop to their phone if they've received a call and then back over to continue what they were doing. Users can also decide who they'd like their AI partner to be: Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa.

Android users can take advantage of Google's Fast Pair to quickly find their device and pair it with their desired devices. Those on PC, namely Windows 11 or 10, can utilize Swift Pair.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 can be pre-ordered today for $299. Users can purchase the new buds in silver or black colorways.

What you need to know

• A promotional video of the Sony Xperia 5 V leaked, showing off a front display that's similar to the Xperia 5 IV.
• The device's rear camera array has seemingly gone down to a dual array, possibly doing away with the telephoto lens.
• The Xperia 5 V was recently rumored to sport a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, a 6.05-inch display, and could see a September launch.

A little bit of hype is starting to build around Sony's next, possibly smaller, phone launch for the Sony Xperia 5 V. 

A promotional video of the Xperia 5 V was posted on Reddit and gives us a pretty good look at the device from the back and front. The video begins by giving the viewer a quick look at the Xperia 5 V's front-facing display. There's not much to discuss here, as the device seemingly looks quite similar to that of the Xperia 5 IV that launched last September.

The promotional video then focused on the rear of the device, which appears to have been reduced to a dual-camera array instead of a triple. For context, the Xperia 5 IV sported a 12MP triple camera array consisting of a primary lens, an ultra-wide lens, and a telephoto lens. 

However, with the leaked video showcasing a dual array, perhaps the Xperia 5 V will sport a primary and ultra-wide lens, instead. You can also see an LED nestled between both lenses in the leaked video.

Lastly, the video shows a person listening to music with their headphones jacked into the phone. This reveals that the Xperia 5 V's 3.5mm headphone jack will sit on its top.

Xperia 5 V from r/SonyXperia

While not much else has leaked surrounding the new Sony smartphone, it was rumored in April that the Xperia 5 V would feature a more compact design for Sony. Leaks back then by Ross Young suggested Sony's next phone could feature a 6.05-inch display. This would make it slightly smaller than the Xperia 5 IV, which offered a 6.1-inch OLED display.

An older leak from late last year suggested the Xperia 5 V may feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC. Sony made a similar move with the Xperia 1 V that launched in early May.

It was then rumored that Sony could launch its new Xperia 5 V sometime during September 2023. With its alleged promotional video leaking now, this may come to pass. Moreover, an assumed launch window such as this would keep things similar to Sony's previous launch of the Xperia 5 IV in 2022.

What you need to know

• Sony teases its July 24 launch date for the new WF-1000XM5.
• The buds look to sport a newly redesigned, contoured physique for a more comfortable in-ear feel.
• The earbuds are rumored to contain an 8.4mm driver with support for Hi-Res Audio and Sony's DSEE Extreme audio.

Sony is beginning to tease its upcoming launch of new earbuds on Twitter. The company recently posted a teaser image accompanied by the tagline "For Silence. For Sound." Sony added consumers will be able to learn more about its new earbuds on July 24 at 12 pm ET.

We are expecting this reveal to be the upcoming Sony WF-1000XM5 as the device image included, while zoomed in, gives us vibes of its newly refined design. 

This will be Sony's next product and the successor to its WF-1000XM4 earbuds from 2021. Those buds, while having good ANC and battery life, didn't sit well with consumers in general due to their odd design.

Rumors about the WF-1000XM5 have been staggered, however, June held leaked renders about its new design. The buds appeared smaller with some contouring that should aid in fitting in a person's ear more comfortably for longer periods.

However, some leaks a couple of weeks later suggested the new earbuds could provide some notable audio upgrades beginning with its rumored 8.4mm drivers. The drivers are supposedly 40% larger than the ones its predecessor features which should deliver a richer and more detailed sound experience.

Dynamic Driver X is rumored to be packed into each bud, offering support for Hi-Res Audio and Sony's DSEE Extreme audio.

The most recent leaks touched on the WF-1000XM5 once again, stating the device's case may contain a 5,000mAh capacity battery. In theory, this could bring the earbuds up to 24 hours of battery life if the case is on hand. On their own, it was rumored earlier in June that the buds could last for 8 hours before needing a quick charge cycle.

The upcoming earbuds were also rumored to be lighter by a couple of grams when compared to Sony's 2021 release.

We aren't that far off from the company's full reveal of the WF-1000XM5 as Sony will probably tweet its full reveal on Monday, July 24 at 12 pm ET.

Anytime two of the biggest players go up against each other, it's easier to take notice. How else to describe two of the best pairs of wireless earbuds currently available? For Sony, the WF-1000XM4 have stood out among the best in the business, whereas for Bose, the QuietComfort Earbuds II stand out as serious contenders unto themselves.

Sony WF-1000XM4 vs. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: What do they offer?

For starters, both of these come with a variety of features, many of which are useful and work well. The two biggest standouts would have to be audio quality and active noise cancelation (ANC) because those are the primary reasons why they are among the best your money can buy.

Both have set a standard for what's possible with ANC in wireless earbuds, as we noted in how they set that tone in our review of the Sony WF-1000XM4 and then again when reviewing the Bose QC Earbuds II. It's a close call between them as far as how well they do in muffling the background, though the fit plays a crucial role in getting the most out of both the sound and noise cancelation.

Bose learned something about that this time around, cutting the QC Earbuds II down 30% from the original QC pair. Sony's earbuds are thicker, though have the added benefit of using foam tips that deform and squeeze into the ear for a tighter seal. 

Once you get the right fit — in either case — you'll likely enjoy the way they sound while also drowning out the background. You can adjust the sound tuning through equalizers in their respective apps, where I give Sony an edge because it offers a 5-band EQ compared to Bose's very modest 3-band one. You can create your own EQ presets with either pair for a more flexible way to tailor the sound to your preference, so that will matter if you're a stickler for fine-tuning the lows, mids, and highs.

Neither pair goes too heavy on the bass, though Bose inexplicably adjusted the default sound to a deeper rumble after a firmware update. Despite that, they each have an appealing clarity befitting earbuds in a higher price range, making them ideal regardless of the kind of music you're into.

The audio clarity extends to phone calls, where it's not only easier to hear someone on the other line but also the effectiveness of the microphones in ensuring you come across clearly to them.

You can't customize the onboard controls with either pair, save for one shortcut with Bose's pair, which also holds an advantage in reliability over Sony's pair.

Sony WF-1000XM4 vs. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: How do they differ?

One interesting distinction between these two is that Bose leaves ANC on at all times. There is no "off" switch, including in the Bose Music app, because it uses an adaptive feature called ActiveSense to adjust how much the effect kicks in. There are four modes to choose from, including an ambient mode to do the opposite in letting you hear the background around you. 

Sony lets you turn off ANC anytime, though noise cancelation isn't quite as adaptive with the WF-1000XM4. I can't knock that too much when it's so effective in drowning out sound, and if you want to mix it up by adding in some ambient sound, the Off setting works well as an alternative.

Whether one pair is better than the other in actually canceling out background noise is hard to say. Bose makes a strong case for slightly edging ahead with the QC Earbuds II, but since Sony launched the WF-1000XM4 a year earlier, I would expect this to be a very close race. The one point I would make is Bose manages to do better in muffling low frequencies, whereas Sony manages better with high frequencies.

On the audio side, Sony brings in its own 360 Reality Audio into its earbuds, letting you listen to spatial audio from sources supporting the feature. Bose doesn't have anything similar, leaving only stereo sound for your ears.

That extends to Bluetooth codecs, where Bose (as of this comparison, at least) hasn't opened up access to Qualcomm's aptX Adaptive for hi-res audio playback. It's not clear when that will happen, but as is, it's a mostly level playing field since Sony doesn't support aptX either. Instead, Sony throws in its own LDAC codec for hi-res playback, which is widely adopted in Android devices.

Strangely, Bose has yet to open up multipoint support, where you can simultaneously use the earbuds with two devices. Technically, you can pair with two devices at once, but true multipoint makes the hand-off seamless, which isn't the case here. Sony, on the other hand, supports that seamless transition with its earbuds.

The differences won't be anywhere near as stark when it comes to battery life, where Sony holds a slight edge in lasting about 30-60 minutes longer per charge, but the overall numbers largely depend on how loud the volume is. At least with Sony's earbuds, you can place the case on a wireless charger, which isn't an option with Bose's pair, where you can only plug in via USB-C. 

Sony WF-1000XM4 vs. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Which should you buy?

There's no wrong choice between these two in that you get a quality product either way. It's no surprise they find themselves among the best wireless earbuds available. It just depends on what you prioritize, and if you're okay with what's missing from one pair or the other. You may find the WF-1000XM4 for a cheaper price compared to the QC Earbuds II now, but both will be more expensive than most anyway.

But you get what you pay for, and that matters when you have to spend more. Both companies continue to support these earbuds with firmware updates, some of which may add new and improved features to what are already fantastic earbuds.