Bold claim: 2026 could be a landmark year for wireless headphones and earbuds, with fresh possibilities from major brands that may redefine how we listen. The past year was already remarkable, as Sony’s award-winning WH-1000XM6 captured widespread praise and Sennheiser surprised with the impressive HDB 630 flagship. The earbuds scene was equally competitive, with Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds Ultra (2nd Gen) earning strong praise, Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 generating intense anticipation, and Sony reinforcing the value end with the WF-C510 (launched in late 2024) and the WF-C710N. The landscape is buzzing with ambition and innovation.
Wireless headphones
Apple AirPods Max 2
Apple tends to move at its own deliberate pace, and that patience shows across its premium over-ear lineup as well as its broader ecosystem of HomePod smart speakers. We first reviewed the original AirPods Max back in 2020, and while a USB‑C‑ready edition arrived in late 2024, a full, feature-rich successor remains eagerly awaited after more than five years. A sequel could push acoustics further, expand Adaptive Audio, enhance active noise cancellation, and possibly introduce a more capable internal processor. The door is wide open for a compelling upgrade that could solidify AirPods Max as the benchmark once again.
Sony WH-CH720N (2nd Gen)
The WH-CH720N established itself as a strong value proposition, delivering solid ANC and impressive overall performance. Given Sony’s track record, a second-generation model feels highly plausible and could arrive on a cadence similar to previous releases—roughly every two to three years. The leap from the WH-1000XM5 to the XM6 demonstrated Sony’s ability to lift a product line; applying that same momentum to the budget-friendly CH720N could yield a noticeable upgrade in sound tuning, feature set, and perhaps design refinements. A foldable, more compact sequel would be particularly appealing for travelers and daily commuters.
Sonos Ace (2nd Gen)
Our first impression of Sonos’ foray into wireless headphones wasn’t overwhelming, but the brand’s size, resources, and ecosystem integration suggest meaningful potential for a improved sequel as early as 2026. The key isn’t just sound; it’s how seamlessly Sonos can weave headphones into its multi-device ecosystem. To challenge leaders, the next Gen Ace would need a noticeably richer sonic profile, smarter usability, and deeper compatibility with Sonos speakers and streaming services. Sonos has the strength to pursue a second attempt seriously if it prioritizes a refined sound and user experience.
Wireless earbuds
Sony WF-1000XM6
With Sony’s track record, a sequel to the acclaimed WF-1000XM5 seems likely. After Sony’s XM6 success on over-ear models, it’s reasonable to expect the company to bring the same attention to its earbud lineup. The current market leader by competition—especially in premium earbuds—means Sony could raise the bar with improved sound, a more natural fit, and an expanded feature set. If Sony can address comfort and pairing intuitiveness while preserving that signature sonic clarity, the WF-1000XM6 could set a new standard.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Circulating rumors point toward an upcoming Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, which is exciting given how strong the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro proved to be. The Buds 3 Pro delivered clean, spacious sound and impressive detail when paired with compatible Galaxy devices using the SSC UHQ codec for high-resolution streaming. If the Buds 4 Pro build on this foundation—offering refined sound, a more secure fit, improved ANC, and broader codec support—it could reclaim top-tier status in the true wireless category.
New Technics AZ40/AZ80 earbuds
Technics demonstrated real progress with the EAH-AZ100, combining clarity, musicality, and refinement. It’s time to extend that success to the brand’s mid-range and premium lines. The AZ40M2 and AZ80 could receive updates that push them closer to the five-star performance we’ve seen from Technics’ flagship, while maintaining a approachable price point. If Technics can translate the AZ100’s strengths to these newer models, they could pose a serious challenge to Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser in the upper-mid to premium segments.
More reading and expert insights
Read our five-star review of the Sennheiser HDB 630.
Explore our guide to the best wireless headphones we’ve tested and rated.
Discover the best wireless earbuds of 2025 as rated by our experts.
About the author
Harry McKerrell is a senior staff writer at What Hi-Fi?. He covers launches and reviews across hi-fi and consumer tech, from floorstanding speakers and music streamers to over-ear headphones and portable DACs. Outside work, he enjoys hockey, piano practice, and meeting new dogs.
If you’re curious about what 2026 might bring, what model are you hoping to see updated or reimagined, and which brand would you bet on to surprise the market next? Share your thoughts in the comments.
