Sony has released three new portable music players running Android 16, with prices reaching nearly six thousand dollars for the gold-plated flagship model.
Key points
- Sony introduced three Walkman models: NW-ZX900, NW-WM1AM3, and NW-WM1ZM3.
- The devices run Android 16 and include Wi-Fi for streaming services.
- The top-tier NW-WM1ZM3 costs $5,900 and features a gold-plated copper body.
Sony revived its Walkman brand last week with three new portable music players. These devices run Android 16, feature touch screens, and carry prices that reach up to $5,900.
What happened
Sony released three updated Walkman models: the NW-WM1ZM3, the NW-WM1AM3, and the NW-ZX900. According to The Register, all three devices run Android 16 and include Wi-Fi connectivity to access streaming music services. They also feature USB charging and batteries that Sony claims allow for approximately thirty hours of music playback.
The entry-level NW-ZX900 costs $1,900 and includes a five-inch touch screen with 64GB of onboard memory. The mid-range NW-WM1AM3 is priced at $3,000 and offers 128GB of storage along with a 5.5-inch screen. The flagship NW-WM1ZM3 also has a 5.5-inch screen but includes 256GB of memory.
The NW-WM1ZM3 is the most expensive model at $5,900. Sony states that this device features a body made from carefully milled copper that is gold-plated. The company claims this construction improves sound quality. All models can store and play various audio codecs, including MP3, WMA, FLAC, Direct Stream Digital, and Apple Lossless files.
Sony asserts that the devices use key components made from oxygen-free copper to deliver uncompromising sound quality. The company also notes that the screws feature a low-resistance gold-plated treatment to provide a stable ground connection. Sony claims this design choice delivers powerful bass and smooth high frequencies.
Despite the focus on high-fidelity audio, Sony included Bluetooth connectivity in the new Walkman players. The Register describes Bluetooth as a notorious music mangler, contrasting it with the wired headphone ports also present on the devices. Sony states that shipping for these devices will begin in mid-January.
Why it matters
High-end audio equipment often emphasizes physical materials like copper or gold, claiming these reduce electrical noise. Consumers should understand that digital files are converted to analog sound through digital-to-analog converters. Wireless connections like Bluetooth compress audio data, which can alter the original signal. Buyers must decide if the premium price for physical build quality outweighs the limitations of wireless streaming.
The fix
- Verify the operating system version before connecting to public networks.
- Review app permissions for streaming services installed on the device.
- Keep the Android 16 software updated to address known vulnerabilities.
- Use wired connections when possible to avoid wireless signal interference.
Why it matters
When evaluating expensive tech, users should consider how hardware choices affect software performance. Android devices on music players introduce potential security risks from internet connectivity. Teams usually assess whether the convenience of streaming justifies the attack surface. Check whether the device allows disabling Wi-Fi when not in use to reduce exposure.
What to do and how to stay safe: Sony
- Check if the device allows disabling Wi-Fi when not actively streaming music.
- Review the permissions granted to any third-party audio apps installed.
- Ensure the Android 16 software is updated to the latest available version.
- Use wired headphones to avoid potential audio quality loss from Bluetooth.
Step-by-step guide: What is password policies and how they protect systems
General security guidance from the Crypt Weekly newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
What operating system do the new Walkman players run?
The new Sony Walkman players run Android 16, according to The Register.
How much does the most expensive Walkman model cost?
The flagship NW-WM1ZM3 model costs $5,900.
When will Sony start shipping these new devices?
Sony says it will ship the devices in mid-January.
