
@ A GLANCE
DRIVER
8.4MM
CODECS
SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3
CONNECTIVITY
Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint
BATTERY LIFE
Up to 8 hrs (NC on), 24 hrs (with case)
RESISTANCE
IPX4
PRICE
$419
To start, the earbuds themselves are considerably more compact and it comes in black and silver. Sony is sticking with a bulbous body shape, but it claims it’s 25% smaller and 20% lighter. I can believe that. They stick out less and sit more comfortably in your ears. I could wear them for hours with no issue. The charging case is smaller too and slides into pockets more easily and discreetly.
Sony took feedback from users and improved the touch controls so that you can now adjust volume by default as well as the other usual controls. The problem with this, however, is that it can be confusing and difficult to use at first because the action to use it is four taps and a particular cadence required to nail it. But with some practice, you’ll soon figure it out.
The Dynamic Driver X has a 8.4mm driver and a diaphragm structure that uses several different materials to achieve low distortion.
Sony has improved the noise cancellation using new chips called the Integrated Processor V2 and HD Noise Cancelling QN2e. Combined with the specially-designed
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In

THE CONNOISSEUR'S PHONE
If you're a photo-taking purist or someone who holds wired audio in high regard, the Xperia 1 VI speaks your language.

ENTRY LEVEL AUDIOPHILE
Right out of the box, the HD 505 presents a familiar yet refined design that borrows cues from its siblings. The earcups sport a robust metal mesh grille reminiscent of the HD 560S, while the plush synthetic leather headband echoes the comfort found in the HD 599.

THE BEST COMBO YET?
As an existing owner of the original Sonos Arc paired with a Sub 3 and two One SL surround speakers, I was curious: How much better is the new Arc Ultra and Sub 4 combo? And is it worth upgrading from the older Arc?

Mac Buyer's Guide: Which Apple Mac Should You Buy?
With the release of the new Mac Pro in 2023, Apple completed the transition of its Macs from Intel processors to its custom-designed M-series silicon.

THE DEEPFAKE DETECTOR
If you're looking for a relatively affordable 2025 flagship powered by Snapdragon, the Honor Magic7 Pro is an easy choice. Its unique deepfake detection and improved AI features make it stand out, though a few quirks may not suit everyone.

CIVILIZATION VII IS SHAPING UP TO BE A STANDOUT ENTRY IN THE SERIES
Unlike some of the more convoluted systems in earlier Civ titles, Civilization VII offers a series of clear, well-organised tutorials that guide new players through the early game.

Exciting Bite-Sized Encounters Tech On HWZ TikTok!
SKIP THE FAKE MARKETING PARADED BY INFLUENCERS AND MAMBO-JUMBO FROM BRANDS

THE COMEBACK KING
The Find X8 Pro embodies the core of the Find X experience with features inspired by Apple's iPhones yet retaining its unique OPPO identity. Long-time fans will recognise the physical Alert Slider with its three modes (ring, vibrate, and silent).

GOING BEYOND ULTRA
This year's Galaxy S25 Ultra has massive shoes to fill, and from what we've seen, it does a pretty stellar job of balancing privilege with the responsibility that comes with its premium price tag.

BUDGETFRIENDLY SPATIAL AUDIO
Creative's Zen Hybrid SXFI headphones bring an affordable yet feature-packed option to the market, blending solid performance with innovative technology.