Sony today announced the WH-1000XM3 noise cancelling headphones, the newest addition to the Sony 1000X family and successor to the highly acclaimed WH-1000XM2. The headband-style around ear variant offers all of the much-loved features from its predecessor while adding multiple key improvements, including upgraded noise cancelling performance to enhance the listening and user experience.

Thanks to Sony’s industry-leading noise cancellation technologies. The WH-1000XM3 features a newly developed HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which has approximately four times greater performance than the previous processor. This feature can not only negate transport noise but also further cancels out daily background sounds, such as street noise and human voices. It also features Dual Noise Sensor technology that captures ambient noise with dual microphones and then passes the sound data to the processor to cancel the noise.

“We are proud to deliver the third generation of our industry-leading noise cancelling headphones,” said Yang Cheng, head of video and sound at Sony Electronics. “Our latest model takes noise cancelling to the next level with Sony’s innovative QN1 processor to deliver only your favorite music and nothing else.”

These headphones deliver exquisite high-resolution audio based on a 40mm driver unit with a Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragm that handles heavy beats and can reproduce a full range of frequencies up to 40kHz. This enables you to enjoy listening to your music exactly how the artist intended.

The HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1 works not only for noise cancelling, but also for delivering stunning sound quality with 32-bit audio signal processing and the combination of DAC with amplifier functionality. This offers exceptionally high sound quality, best-in-class signal-to-noise ratio, and low distortion for portable devices.

Another improvement is the Customizable Automatic Power Off function on the companion Headphones Connect app, which can enable the headphones to stay on and in noise cancellation mode without being connected to a device – perfect for reducing noise without listening to music, like when wanting to rest peacefully on a long haul flight.

The WH-1000XM3s have a new, slimmer silhouette and weigh less than their predecessor. The deeper earcup and thicker headband cushion add comfort. They also come with a stylish fabric case that will satisfy fashion-conscious users, as well as new, eye-catching color options of black or platinum silver with gold highlights.

Besides offering up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancelling and Bluetooth® connectivity, the WH-1000XM3 headphones have an upgraded Quick Charging function that provides up to five hours of wireless playback after a mere 10 minutes of charging via a contemporary USB type-C™ port.

Voice calls are also made clearer with the introduction of multiple microphones, ideal for hands-free conversations.

The industry-leading WH-1000XM3 noise cancelling headphones will be available from September at a suggested retail price of USD349.99 (SGD 549).