Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones get new Olive Gray colour, to be available in India soon

The Olive Gray version joins the existing Black, Platinum Silver, Midnight Blue, Sand Pink and Sandstone finishes. The black, silver and blue finishes debuted at launch in India in September, while the pink and sandstone finishes were introduced later. Sony has also matched the new colour with a redesigned carry case featuring a light green exterior and grey interior, although the bundled charging cable remains black.

In India, the Olive Gray variant is currently listed as “coming soon” on Sony’s website. The existing colour options continue to be priced at Rs 49,990. Sony had introduced the WH-1000XM6 in India in September 2025 at Rs 39,990 after its global debut earlier that year.

Sony WH-1000XM6 features

Since this is purely a cosmetic refresh, the WH-1000XM6 retains the same hardware introduced with the original model. The headphones are powered by Sony’s HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, which the company says is seven times faster than the QN1 chip used in the WH-1000XM5. Sony has also increased the microphone count from eight to 12, paired with a new Adaptive NC Optimiser that continuously adjusts noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment.

Battery life is rated at up to 40 hours with active noise cancellation turned off, an improvement over the previous generation’s 30-hour claim. The headphones can now also be used while charging, alongside fast charging that promises three hours of playback from a three-minute top-up. Connectivity has also been modernised with Bluetooth 5.3, Bluetooth LE Audio, LC3 codec support and Auracast compatibility. While these standards are still gradually becoming mainstream, they position the WH-1000XM6 well for future devices and shared audio experiences.

One of the biggest hardware changes introduced with the WH-1000XM6 over its predecessor was the return of a foldable design, making the headphones easier to carry. Sony also redesigned the headband and earcups for improved comfort during long listening sessions, while replacing the older zippered case with a magnetic closure. However, one limitation remains unchanged. Like previous generations, the WH-1000XM6 still lacks an IP rating, making it less suitable for workouts or use in heavy rain compared to some rivals.

For buyers considering premium wireless headphones, the Olive Gray version does not offer any functional advantage over the existing colours. Those who already planned to buy the WH-1000XM6 can simply choose the finish they prefer. Buyers comparing options in this segment may also want to consider alternatives such as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, Apple AirPods Max or Sonos Ace, depending on whether they prioritise ecosystem integration, comfort or sound signature. For existing WH-1000XM6 owners, however, the new launch is purely about aesthetics.