# How do the touch controls work on the Sony WH-1000XM6? Can I customize them?

> Expert answer about control options

*Published: 2026-03-18 | Updated: 2026-03-18 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/sony-wh-1000xm6-touch-controls-customize*

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## Product: Sony WH-1000XM6 Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones, On-ear headphones, Sony xm6, Sony headphones, Sony noise canceling headphone

The [Sony WH-1000XM6](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F3PQHWTZ?tag=shopsavvy00-20) uses capacitive touch on the right earcup plus physical buttons on the left.

## Right Earcup (Touch Surface)

| Gesture | Action |
|---------|--------|
| Double tap | Play/pause |
| Swipe forward | Next track |
| Swipe back | Previous track |
| Swipe up | Volume up |
| Swipe down | Volume down |
| Long press | Voice assistant |
| Cup hand | Quick Attention |

## Left Earcup (Physical Buttons)

- **NC/AMB button:** Cycle Noise Canceling → Ambient → Off
- **Power button:** On/off, Bluetooth pairing (hold)

## Call Controls

- **Double-tap NC/AMB:** Mute/unmute microphone
- **Head gestures:** Nod to answer, shake to reject (enable in app)

## Customization (Sony Sound Connect App)

| Setting | Options |
|---------|---------|
| Long-press gesture | Voice assistant, ANC toggle, other |
| Speak-to-Chat | Enable/disable, sensitivity |
| Adaptive Sound Control | Activity-based behaviors |

## Limitations

- Cannot disable touch surface completely
- Accidental touches occur when adjusting headphones
- Only long-press is fully customizable

## Learning Curve

Gestures take 1-2 days to master. Once muscle memory develops, controls feel intuitive and responsive.

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*