Latest news with #T3
The Advertiser
7 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself
BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from:
Perth Now
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself
BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise,' Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. 'Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers,' said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. 'Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever,' he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. 'As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history,' added Mr Todd. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia.' We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year.
7NEWS
7 days ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself
BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. 'This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise,' Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. 'Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers,' said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. 'Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever,' he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. 'As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history,' added Mr Todd. 'As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia.' We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
World Thyroid Day 2025: How your thyroid could be steering your mental state
The thyroid gland, though small in size, plays a monumental role in regulating our body's metabolism, energy levels, and emotional balance. For many patients, unexplained fatigue, mood changes, and memory fog are often brushed off as stress or aging—when in fact, they could signal an underlying thyroid disorder. The overlooked link between thyroid and mood Thyroid hormones—primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine)—have a direct influence on brain function. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can trigger mental health symptoms that closely resemble depression or anxiety. In hypothyroidism, patients often experience persistent low mood, sluggishness, irritability, poor concentration, and memory lapses. In hyperthyroidism, individuals may struggle with restlessness, panic attacks, insomnia, and emotional instability. This overlap often leads to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment, especially when patients present solely with psychiatric symptoms. Why this connection matters As a General Medicine practitioner, I frequently encounter patients who have seen multiple specialists for their psychological symptoms before a routine thyroid test reveals the true cause. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bee Keepers of India Selling Pure Honey online to Indian consumers via Ecommerce Website Scrolling Bee India Read More Undo Timely detection of thyroid dysfunction can dramatically improve not just physical health, but emotional well-being too. Red flags that shouldn't be ignored Sudden changes in mood or behavior Ongoing fatigue despite adequate rest Difficulty concentrating or memory issues Unexplained weight changes Menstrual irregularities or hair thinning If you're experiencing a combination of these symptoms, it is essential to get your thyroid profile evaluated. A holistic approach to treatment Managing thyroid-related mental health symptoms requires more than just hormone replacement or medication regulation. It involves: Regular monitoring of thyroid function Addressing nutritional deficiencies (like iodine, selenium, Vitamin D) Supporting emotional health through therapy or counseling if needed Prioritizing sleep, exercise, and stress reduction Mental health is intricately tied to physical well-being. The thyroid–brain connection is a powerful reminder of how our body systems are interdependent. A comprehensive approach to patient care, especially in women and older adults, should always include thyroid evaluation when unexplained mood or cognitive changes occur. Early intervention can make a world of difference—and sometimes, the right diagnosis starts with simply asking the right questions. Dr. Nanda Kumar, Senior Consultant – General Medicine, SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Forbes
20-05-2025
- Forbes
Sony WH-1000XM6: Latest Flagship Headphones Restore Favorite Design Feature
Updated May 20 with more analysis of the newly released headphones and pricing. The new noise-cancelling headphones from Sony, WH-1000XM6, have just been unveiled. It's about three years since the last pair, so you'd have thought there would have been a lot of changes. You'd have thought right. And the bonus of the new release is also that the prices of two earlier models have dropped. The Sony series of headphones have routinely been well-loved and admired. Here's what's changed since the last model. Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones in midnight blue The deals highlighted in this post were independently selected by the Contributor and do not contain affiliate links. At first glance, they look similar to the WH-1000XM5 headphones they supersede (but not replace, the WH-1000XM5 remain in the range at a reduced price: they were $399.99, now they're $349.99 from However, these headphones fold. The previous models let you turn the cups flat to be packed away, but you couldn't fold them in on themselves. A new hinge lets you fold them any which way, it feels like. The hinge includes metal supports which look and feel sturdy. Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are just out. Max Freeman-Mills at T3 commented on the new hinge. 'Around those ear cups, though, there are a heap of changes. The biggest is the arrival of stainless steel hinges, which operate noiselessly and let you fold the headphones away in a manner totally skipped by the XM5. That'll put them among the best headphones for travel for many, then. The WH-1000XM6 can fold right up into a semi-circular shape if you like, although the case that comes with the headphones only puts them in a half-fold,' he reported. Subtler details have also changed, like the angle of the headband. The angle of the hinge has been changed to bring to give a cleaner appearance and bring the headband closer to your head. It's also designed to make it more comfy — the headband is also wider than before. The fold is helpful for when you're packing them away in the case or slipping them into a backpack. Sony WH-1000XM6 case with magnetic closure The case, by the way, is also a new design, with a magnetic closure replacing the zip from last time for extra convenience. Some users may still find the case on the large side, even if it is simpler to use (and to pick up, as there's a handy tag at the top). Freeman-Mill likes it, though. 'That case — which is color-matched to your black, blue or silver headphones — is now sealed with a nice little magnetic clasp, instead of the XM5-style zip, which Sony admitted to me was 'difficult to open'… It works a treat and offers good protection thanks to a hard shell design,' he said. Sony WH-1000XM6 in silver finish The new design also has more microphones: six on each earcup instead of the four on each side last time around. This is designed to improve call quality, with one pair of microphones facing back and up, to hear background noise accurately before quietening it. There's also a microphone inside each ear cup to hear noise there and deal with it. The colors are the same as the original range for the WH-1000XM5: black, silver and midnight blue. Smoky pink was also added to the XM5s during its time as top-flight headphones. Oh, one other change: Speak to Chat is no longer activated from the earcup. Speak to Chat is great: it quells what you're listening to, the second it hears you speaking. But some people, the sort who sing along to a song or find themselves shouting at a movie on the inflight entertainment, for instance, saw it kick into action when it wasn't wanted. You'll have guessed, dear reader, that I was one of the above people. The feature is still there but it's now activated from the Sony app instead. Welcome to the new QN3 processor, which Sony claims is seven times faster than the chip in the last model and delivers a leap forward in sound quality, with or without noise-cancelling. Sony's noise-cancelling has always been at the very highest level of quality, so any uptick will be impressive. T3 felt that this uptick was noticeable. 'The XM6 sound phenomenal, with adaptive noise-cancelling (ANC) that defies belief,' the report said, also saying that it was 'the best noise-cancelling I've ever heard.' There's a new adaptive optimizer for noise-cancelling to help with this and to adjust air pressure, which can be a nuisance in noise-cancellers. The headphones are available to purchase from today, Saturday, May 17 and cost $449.99 or £399 in the U.K. Both prices are a touch higher than the original release prices for the WH-1000XM5 headphones — to be precise, the price in the U.S. has gone up by $50, while the U.K. price is £20 more. By the way, T3's major negative note in its commentary was the price increase, saying the extra cost was, 'not too bad as a percentage, but it's not nothing at all.' Note that both prices are still noticeably less than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones or Apple AirPods Max which cost $499 and $549 respectively. By the way, the WH-1000XM4 headphones are also still available, for $299.99, a price drop of $50. Sony routinely keeps the last-gen model in the range, so I think the newly price-cut WH-1000XM5 will hang around, and remember they're available in smoky pink as well as the other three colors found on the WH-1000XM6. However, there's no certainty that the WH-1000XM4 headphones will remain. I think it's more likely that current stocks could be the last. I have asked Sony to confirm this and will update this post when I hear back.
