Renders and basic specifications for Sony's rumored WF-1000XM4 successor were leaked earlier this month, with some sources theorizing that Sony would be unveiling the next-generation TWS earbuds within days. An official announcement did not come to pass, but details and a (top-down view) photo of the WF-1000XM5's charging case have emerged from an independent testing database—the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC). Tipsters reckon that the WF-1000XM5 buds will be smaller and lighter than predecessors—perhaps closer in size to Sony's cheaper TWS offering, the WF-C700N—and leaked specifications indicate that the new model is not a massive departure from the XM4, although multi-point connectivity looks to be standard at launch.

The WPC's online certification page lists model number YY2963, which is identical to an FCC registration from February. The June 9th entry states that it is a "wireless stereo headset," with a carry/charging case classed as a "Power Class 0 Receiver" offering 2 W maximum input. A low quality photo of this earbud cradle is included on the WPC web page—Sony's new unit looks almost identical to the WF-1000XM4 enclosure. Qi wireless charging is very likely part of the package, but the next-gen solution might not be much of an upgrade. Insiders have reassessed the situation, and now propose that Sony is planning on a July or August reveal for the the 1000XM5.