iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To set up the Sony WH-1000XM6, hold its power button for about two seconds or longer until the blue indicator flashes, then select the headphones in your phone or computer’s Bluetooth settings. On the first startup after purchase, Sony says the headset enters pairing mode automatically. Use Sony | Sound Connect for the recommended Android and iPhone setup, and use your operating system’s Bluetooth controls for Windows, Mac, or another source.
What you need before pairing
Have the WH-1000XM6 nearby, keep Bluetooth enabled on the source device, and decide whether you are connecting one device or two. The first connection is called pairing: the headset and source exchange registration information. After that registration succeeds, you normally reconnect from the source device’s Bluetooth controls rather than pairing again.
Sony’s model-specific Help Guide separates instructions for Android, iPhone, Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac, and other Bluetooth devices because each source controls its own Bluetooth menus. The labels below match common current layouts, but wording and menu placement can differ by operating-system version, language, or manufacturer.
| Use case | Where to start | Do you pair again later? |
|---|---|---|
| First phone connection | Power on, then Sony | Sound Connect or the phone’s Bluetooth settings | No. Reconnect from the phone’s Bluetooth list. |
| First computer connection | Power on, then Windows or macOS Bluetooth settings | No. Select the saved headset in Bluetooth settings. |
| Another source device | Put the headset in pairing mode and use that device’s Bluetooth controls | No, once that device has been registered. |
| Phone plus computer | Pair both devices, then enable “Connect to 2 devices simultaneously” in Sound Connect | No, unless you remove the saved pairing or reset a device. |
Step 1: Turn on the WH-1000XM6 and enter pairing mode
- Press and hold the headset’s power button for about two seconds or longer.
- Keep holding until the blue indicator flashes.
- On the first startup after purchase, the headset automatically activates pairing mode, according to Sony’s setup instructions.
- Leave the headset powered on while you open the Bluetooth controls on the device you want to connect.
If this is not the first startup, use the same power-button action and wait for the blue flashing indicator before searching from the new source. Pairing mode is what makes the headset visible to an unregistered phone, computer, or other Bluetooth device.
#1 Best Overall
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
- COMPACT CARRYING CASE & FOLDABLE DESIGN: Crafted for durability and style, the foldable design features precision metalwork and a compact case with a magnetic closure—ready to go wherever you do.
How to pair the WH-1000XM6 with an Android phone
Recommended method: Sony | Sound Connect
- Install or open Sony | Sound Connect on the Android phone.
- Turn on the WH-1000XM6 and wait for the blue indicator to flash.
- Follow the app’s connection prompts and approve Bluetooth permissions requested by Android.
- When the app shows the WH-1000XM6 as connected, play a short audio clip and check that sound comes through the headphones.
Sony recommends the app for connecting the WH-1000XM6 to an Android smartphone. The app is also where you enable the headset’s two-device connection option when you need multipoint.
Android Bluetooth fallback
If the app connection is unstable, use Android’s own Bluetooth procedure instead. Open the phone’s Bluetooth or Connected devices settings, turn Bluetooth on, choose the option to pair a new device, and select “WH-1000XM6” when it appears. The exact menu names vary among Android versions and phone manufacturers. Sony’s Help Guide provides a separate procedure for an already-paired Android phone; after the first registration, select the saved headset from the phone’s paired-device list instead of starting a new pairing.
How to pair the WH-1000XM6 with an iPhone
Recommended method: Sony | Sound Connect
- Open Sony | Sound Connect on the iPhone.
- Power on the headset and wait for the blue flashing indicator.
- Use the app’s connection flow and allow the requested Bluetooth access.
- Confirm that the WH-1000XM6 is shown as connected, then test music or a call.
iPhone Bluetooth fallback
When the app does not complete the connection reliably, open Settings > Bluetooth, enable Bluetooth, and tap “WH-1000XM6” under available devices. If the headset was paired previously, tap its saved entry to reconnect. iOS labels can change between releases, but the Bluetooth control remains in Settings. Sony’s Help Guide distinguishes the first iPhone pairing procedure from reconnecting an already-paired iPhone.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #2
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
- COMPACT CARRYING CASE & FOLDABLE DESIGN: Crafted for durability and style, the foldable design features precision metalwork and a compact case with a magnetic closure—ready to go wherever you do.
How to connect the WH-1000XM6 to a Windows laptop or desktop
Windows 11
- Turn on the WH-1000XM6 and put it in pairing mode until the blue indicator flashes.
- Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices on the PC.
- Turn Bluetooth on, choose Add device, select Bluetooth, and wait for the device list.
- Select “WH-1000XM6” and approve the pairing request.
- Choose the headset as the output device from Windows’ sound controls if audio continues through the laptop speakers.
Windows 11 updates can rename or rearrange controls. If your screen differs, use the Bluetooth section of Settings and look for the command to add a Bluetooth device.
Windows 10
- Put the headset into pairing mode.
- Open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
- Turn Bluetooth on, select Add Bluetooth or other device, choose Bluetooth, and select “WH-1000XM6.”
- After Windows confirms the connection, select the headset from the taskbar’s sound output selector when necessary.
Windows 10 and Windows 11 can show separate entries for media audio and hands-free calling. If a conferencing application has its own microphone and speaker selectors, choose the WH-1000XM6 there as well.
How to connect the WH-1000XM6 to a Mac
- Power on the headset and wait for the blue flashing indicator.
- Open the Mac’s Bluetooth settings. On recent macOS versions, this is in System Settings > Bluetooth; older versions use System Preferences > Bluetooth.
- Make sure Bluetooth is on, locate “WH-1000XM6,” and click Connect.
- Open the Mac’s sound output controls and select the headset if macOS continues using its internal speakers.
macOS menu names depend on the release. Sony’s Help Guide has a separate Mac procedure, while the Mac itself determines the current labels and confirmation screens.
Rank #3
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
How to pair with another Bluetooth device
The WH-1000XM6 can also pair with a tablet, television, handheld game system, or another Bluetooth source. Hold the power button for about two seconds or longer until the blue indicator flashes, open that product’s Bluetooth settings, start a new-device search, and select “WH-1000XM6.” Follow the source device’s confirmation prompt.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Because pairing is controlled by the source, the final menu may say Add device, Pair new device, Available devices, or something similar. The relevant Sony Help Guide section is “other Bluetooth devices” when the source is not Android, iPhone, Windows, or Mac.
Pairing versus reconnecting: what changes after setup
Pairing is the initial registration between the headphones and a source. Sony’s instructions state that an already-paired device does not need to be paired again. For normal use, turn on the headset and open the source’s Bluetooth controls, then select the saved WH-1000XM6 entry if it does not reconnect automatically.
Rank #4
- PREMIUM NOISE CANCELLATION: Two processors control 8 microphones for unprecedented noise cancellation. With Auto NC Optimizer, noise canceling is automatically optimized based on your wearing conditions and environment.
- MAGNIFICENT SOUND: Engineered to perfection with the new Integrated Processor V1.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS-FREE CALLING: 4 beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (3 min charge for 3 hours of playback).
- ULTRA-COMFORTABLE: Lightweight design with soft fit leather.
- First connection: use pairing mode and choose the headset from the source’s available-device list.
- Later connection: choose the headset from the source’s paired or saved-device list.
- Changing sources: stop using the current source if necessary, then select the headset from the other source’s Bluetooth controls.
Do not start a fresh pairing search every time you use the headphones. Repeated pairing can create duplicate or stale entries on a phone or computer without providing any benefit.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to use multipoint with two devices
The WH-1000XM6 supports simultaneous connections to two devices. A typical setup is a phone for calls and a laptop for music or meetings. Pair each source individually first; then configure the two-device option in Sony | Sound Connect.
Enable the two-device connection
- Open Sony | Sound Connect while the headset is connected.
- Find the connection or system setting named “Connect to 2 devices simultaneously.”
- Turn that option on and follow any prompt to maintain or establish the two Bluetooth connections.
- Confirm that both the phone and computer appear as connected before testing playback.
The app setting is required for the multipoint behavior described by Sony. Without it, the headset may remain connected to only one source at a time.
Best Value
- NEW SANDSTONE COLOR: Neutral never sounded so good. Meet the new Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones, now in Sandstone. Our new Sandstone colorway is a sophisticated neutral that feels modern, versatile, and effortlessly stylish for any moment.
- THE BEST NOISE CANCELLATION: Powered by advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
- CO-CREATED WITH MASTERING AUDIO ENGINEERS: Developed in collaboration with world-renowned mastering audio engineers, these headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and precision. A specially designed driver with a lightweight carbon fiber dome delivers high fidelity sound, where rich vocals and every instrument remains pure and balanced. Optimized for advanced noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM6 headphones keep every frequency crisp and true to the artist’s intent.
- HD NOISE CANCELING PROCESSOR QN3: The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 is 7x faster than the QN1 (found in our WH-1000XM5 headphones), optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation, sound quality, and call clarity. With more microphones than ever, we can precisely detect external noise and counteracts it with opposite soundwaves, delivering a new level of noise cancellation.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALLS, FROM ANYWHERE: A six-microphone AI-based beamforming system, intelligent noise reduction technology, and wind-resistant design, work together to isolate your voice, filter out background noise, and ensure every word comes through crisp and clear—even in the busiest environments.
Fix audio that will not switch to the second device
If the second device connects but its audio does not play, the first device may still own the active audio stream. Apply this sequence:
- Stop playback on the first device.
- Close the first device’s music, video, call, or browser audio application completely.
- Start playback on the second device.
- If the switch still fails, open Bluetooth controls on both sources and verify that both show the WH-1000XM6 as connected, then retry after stopping all audio.
Sony’s troubleshooting guidance notes that even a silent stream can keep the first connection open and prevent the headset from switching. Pausing audio alone may not be enough when an application continues holding an audio session.
Troubleshooting common setup problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| The headphones do not appear in the device list | The headset is not in pairing mode, or the source is not actively searching. | Hold the power button for about two seconds or longer until the blue indicator flashes, then start a new Bluetooth-device search. |
| Sound still comes from the phone or computer | The headset is connected but is not selected as the current audio output. | Choose WH-1000XM6 in the source’s sound-output selector. For calls, also check the meeting or calling app’s speaker and microphone selections. |
| Sound will not move from the first multipoint device | The first device is still streaming, including a silent stream. | Enable “Connect to 2 devices simultaneously,” stop playback, and close the first device’s audio application before starting audio on the second. |
| The app connection is unstable on a phone | The app-based connection has not completed reliably. | Use the phone’s own Bluetooth settings to pair or reconnect, as Sony recommends for this situation. |
| A previously used device asks to pair again | The source no longer has a usable saved pairing, or its Bluetooth state has changed. | Open the source’s Bluetooth settings, check whether WH-1000XM6 is still listed as a saved device, and follow that source’s pairing procedure if it is no longer available. |
| Two devices appear connected but only one produces audio | Multipoint connections do not make both sources play at once; one source may still be holding the audio route. | Stop and close audio on the first source, then begin playback on the source you want to hear. |
A reliable setup checklist
- Power button held for about two seconds or longer.
- Blue indicator flashing during the first device search.
- “WH-1000XM6” selected in the correct source-device list.
- Audio output changed to the headset when the source kept its built-in speakers selected.
- Phone and computer each tested separately before enabling multipoint.
- “Connect to 2 devices simultaneously” enabled in Sound Connect for a two-source setup.
- Playback stopped and the first audio application closed when multipoint switching failed.
Which Sony instructions should you use?
Sony’s WH-1000XM6 manuals page lists the model’s Help Guide, setup guide, and reference guide. The Help Guide release date shown on that page is June 29, 2026. It contains separate procedures for Android, iPhone, Windows 11, Windows 10, Mac, and other Bluetooth devices, so use the section matching your source rather than applying a computer procedure to a phone.
Sony’s WH-1000XM6 troubleshooting page was last modified September 8, 2026. Its multipoint guidance is especially relevant when two devices show a connection but playback remains on the first source. Operating-system menus can change independently of Sony’s documentation; when a label differs, stay in the source’s Bluetooth settings and look for the equivalent add, pair, connect, or audio-output control.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
