Sony's Next-Gen Earbuds: Retailer Listing Suggests Imminent Launch and Familiar Design

Sony's highly anticipated WF-1000XM6 earbuds appear to be nearing release, judging by a recent listing on a parts retailer's website. The listing, spotted on Encompass Parts, not only bolsters the evidence of an imminent launch but also provides clues about the color options Sony plans to offer.

The listing references model number YY2985, which has been previously linked to the WF-1000XM6 through Sony's own Sound Connect app and regulatory filings with the FCC. The repeated appearance of this model number across various sources significantly strengthens the likelihood that the product is in its final stages of preparation for market release.

According to the Encompass Parts listing, Sony will continue its tradition of offering the WF-1000XM6 in black and silver colorways. This aligns with the established design language of the XM series, known for its understated and premium aesthetics. While the listing doesn't divulge any technical specifications, the consistency of these details across multiple leaks suggests that the core hardware and design are likely finalized.

Rumors surrounding the WF-1000XM6 have been circulating since mid-2024, initially appearing in conjunction with speculation about the WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones, which have since been released. A brief, unintentional mention of the earbuds within Sony's app further fueled anticipation, a common occurrence before official product announcements.

Intriguingly, the retailer listing includes a shipping date of February 27, 2026, for the replacement components. While this date could be a placeholder, it aligns with some industry speculation suggesting an early 2026 launch window, potentially following the CES 2026 trade show in early January. The Walkman Blog, for instance, posits that an announcement could come shortly after the event concludes on January 9th.

Expectations for the WF-1000XM6 are high, particularly in areas such as active noise cancellation (ANC), battery life, and overall sound quality. The current WF-1000XM5 model has already set a high standard in these areas, so consumers are anticipating meaningful improvements with the new generation.

This retailer listing, while not an official confirmation from Sony, serves as a strong indicator that the WF-1000XM6 earbuds are on the horizon. For audiophiles and tech enthusiasts, this leak offers a tantalizing glimpse of what to expect from Sony's next flagship earbuds. The details provided lend more weight to the idea that a launch is not far off, so that consumers can soon experience the improvements Sony has made.

Editor’s note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.