Sony's 10th Anniversary 'ColleXion' Headphones Leak Ahead of Launch
Leaked renders and details reveal Sony's upcoming 'ColleXion' headphones, a 10th-anniversary edition expected to launch on May 19th with premium features and a higher price point.
Sony's highly anticipated 10th-anniversary edition of its premium over-ear headphones, dubbed "The ColleXion", has surfaced online through leaked image renders ahead of their official unveiling, reportedly scheduled for May 19, 2026. The leaks, attributed to industry sources like OnLeaks and HotEUDeals, provide a comprehensive look at the new model, designated by the internal code WH-1000XX, and offer details on its design, specifications, and a surprising price tag.
These new headphones appear to boast a more substantial build than the current WH-1000XM6 series, featuring noticeably thicker leatherette padding and generously proportioned earcups. The design incorporates distinctive premium touches, including color-matched metallic yokes that connect the headband to the earcups. Button controls on the earcups are more pronounced, and the microphone grilles have undergone a redesign, shifting from a mesh pattern to larger, more prominent openings directly integrated into the chassis. The "ColleXion" edition will be available in both black and white color options.
A Premium Package with a Premium Price
The leaks also indicate a significant price increase for this special edition. Expected to retail for $649 in the United States, the ColleXion headphones command a $200 premium over the launch price of the flagship WH-1000XM6 models. This elevated cost is accompanied by a suite of enhanced features and design elements aimed at justifying the premium. Marketing materials accompanying the leaks suggest that Sony has collaborated with three renowned studios—Battery Studios, Sterling Sound, and Coast Mastering—all of which have a history of mastering Grammy-winning records. This partnership is intended to fine-tune the audio drivers for a bespoke listening experience.
In terms of performance, the ColleXion headphones are slated to offer up to 24 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation (ANC) engaged, extending to 32 hours when ANC is disabled. The noise cancellation technology is reportedly powered by a dual-processor system: the V3 co-processor working in tandem with the QN3 processor already featured in the WH-1000XM6. This setup aims to deliver industry-leading acoustic performance and environmental sound control.
Beyond the headphones themselves, the leaked information also details the included accessories. A redesigned carry case is part of the package, deviating from Sony's typical zippered designs. This new case features a built-in handle and a magnetic closure, presenting a more handbag-like aesthetic. For connectivity, the case will house a USB-C cable for charging and a 3.5mm cable for wired audio playback, ensuring versatility for different user preferences and scenarios. The inclusion of a high-quality case and the extensive audio tuning partnerships underscore Sony's ambition to position the ColleXion as a top-tier offering in the premium audio market.
The initial mention of the "ColleXion" name surfaced on Sony's websites in April, hinting at the upcoming release of a special over-ear headphone model. The anticipation surrounding this 10th-anniversary product line highlights Sony's sustained effort to innovate and cater to audiophiles seeking superior sound quality and advanced noise-cancellation technology. The Sony brand has consistently been at the forefront of personal audio, and this latest iteration aims to reinforce that position. The leak of detailed specifications and design renders suggests that the official launch is imminent, with consumers eager to see if the headphones live up to their premium billing.