The Sony WF-1000XM6 supports four Bluetooth audio codecs to ensure compatibility with virtually any device while offering high-quality audio options.
Complete Codec Support
| Codec | Max Bitrate | Quality Level | Best For | |-------|-------------|---------------|----------| | LDAC | 990 kbps | Hi-Res (24-bit/96kHz) | Android users wanting best quality | | AAC | ~256 kbps | High quality | iPhone, iPad, Mac users | | SBC | ~328 kbps | Standard | Universal compatibility | | LC3 | Variable | Efficient | LE Audio, Auracast |
LDAC: High-Resolution Audio
Sony's flagship codec delivers wireless audio approaching wired quality:
- Up to 990 kbps bitrate
- 24-bit/96kHz resolution
- Frequency response: 20 Hz – 40,000 Hz
- Requires: Android device with LDAC support
AAC: Apple Device Standard
The default codec for Apple ecosystem:
- Good quality at reasonable bitrates
- Native support on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
- Also supported by many Windows PCs
SBC: Universal Fallback
Basic Bluetooth codec ensuring compatibility with all devices. Quality is adequate but noticeably below LDAC and AAC.
LC3: Future-Proof Technology
Enables Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast compatibility. Receive shared audio broadcasts in compatible venues like airports, stadiums, and gyms.
Automatic Codec Selection
Your device determines which codec is used:
- Android phones → LDAC (if supported) or AAC
- iPhone/iPad → AAC (Apple doesn't support LDAC)
- Windows PC → Depends on Bluetooth adapter
- Mac → AAC
Codec selection happens automatically—no manual configuration required.
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. How ShopSavvy makes money
How we researched this
Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from 1 retailer in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Mar 18, 2026.
📚More About Sony WF-1000XM6 Earbuds
Considering the Sony WF-1000XM6 Earbuds?
Here's our "TLDR" Review
Download ShopSavvy App
Compare prices across tens of thousands of stores, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more.
Install ShopSavvy Browser Extension
Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.
More Answers
If you're still curious about the Sony WF-1000XM6 Earbuds, here are some other answers you might find interesting:
- What is Quick Attention mode on the Sony WF-1000XM6?
Quick Attention is one of those Sony WF-1000XM6 features you don't think you need until you use it—then you wonder how you lived without it. Place your finger...
- How do I know which ear tip size is right for my Sony WF-1000XM6?
Getting the right ear tip size for your Sony WF-1000XM6 seems simple, but it makes a huge difference. Wrong size = weak bass, bad ANC, and earbuds that feel...
- Can I use the Sony WF-1000XM6 with Samsung TV?
Good news: yes, you can pair your Sony WF-1000XM6 with your Samsung TV. Not-so-good news: it's not the seamless experience you might hope for. Pretty...
- Why does my Sony WF-1000XM6 show a poor seal in the app?
That "poor seal" warning in the app? One of the most common complaints about the Sony WF-1000XM6. And one of the most fixable. Here's the thing: the seal...
- What's the difference between LC3 and LDAC codecs on the Sony WF-1000XM6?
Two codecs, two completely different jobs on your Sony WF-1000XM6. Here's when to use which. LDAC is Sony's baby—a high-resolution codec that can push up to...
- Does the Sony WF-1000XM6 have LE Audio support?
Short answer: yes, the Sony WF-1000XM6 supports LE Audio. And it's actually kind of a big deal if you care about gaming or video. Traditional Bluetooth has...
- Can I replace just one Sony WF-1000XM6 earbud if I lose it?
Lost one WF-1000XM6 earbud? Dropped one down a drain? Dog got to it? I feel your pain. The good news: you don't have to buy a whole new set. Call Sony Support...
- Why does the Sony WF-1000XM6 use Bluetooth 5.3 instead of Bluetooth 6?
I've seen this complaint pop up a lot: "Why doesn't the $330 WF-1000XM6 have the latest Bluetooth 6?" Fair question. Let me explain why it's not actually a big...
- What is the difference between 360 Reality Audio and 360 Upmix on the Sony WF-1000XM6?
Sony gives you two ways to get spatial audio on the WF-1000XM6, and they work completely differently. Let me clear up the confusion. This is actual 3D audio,...
- How does the Adaptive NC Optimizer work on the Sony WF-1000XM6?
Ever wonder why your noise cancellation sometimes feels incredible and other times just... okay? That's exactly the problem the Adaptive NC Optimizer is...
