Sony WH-1000XM: how to reset and re-pair your headphones
When your Sony headphones don't respond or won't connect to your phone, a reset or re-pairing is usually enough. We start with the option that doesn't erase any settings.
- Most common cause
- frozen software or an old pairing on your phone
- Time
- 5–10 minutes
- Repair shop, if nothing helps
- 200–540 zł
Initializing the headphones deletes all settings and saved pairings. Warning: if you use the Sony Headphones Connect app, your custom equalizer and sound settings will go back to default, so write them down first. Don't plug the headphones into a damaged cable, and don't reset them when the battery is completely flat.
Step by step
Charge the headphones and check the cable
Charge the headphones for 15–20 minutes. A flat battery often causes odd behavior. Use a different USB cable if you can.
Turn Bluetooth off and on on your phone
Turn Bluetooth off on your phone, wait a few seconds and turn it on again. Also check that the headphones aren't connected to another device, such as a laptop or tablet.
Remove the headphones from the Bluetooth list
In your phone's Bluetooth settings, select the Sony headphones and tap “Forget” or “Unpair”. An old pairing can block a new connection.
Do a reset that keeps your settings
Plug in the USB charging cable and press the POWER and NC/AMB buttons at the same time. Then unplug the cable and plug it in again. This method is described for the WH-1000XM5. The buttons may differ on other models, so check the manual for your model.
Enter pairing mode
With the headphones off, hold the POWER button until you hear the pairing message or the light starts flashing blue quickly. Then select the headphones in your phone's Bluetooth list. The hold time depends on the model.
Initialize the headphones (factory reset)
Turn the headphones off and unplug the cable. Hold POWER and NC/AMB for at least 7 seconds, until the blue light flashes 4 times. Then remove the headphones from the Bluetooth list and pair them again from scratch.
Warning: this deletes data
Warning: initialization erases all settings and pairings. If you use the Sony app, write down your sound settings first. Set them up again after initializing.
Update the headphone software
After pairing, open the Sony Headphones Connect app and check for an update. Newer versions often improve connection stability.
- The headphones don't react to charging at all and the light doesn't come on.
- They still freeze or keep disconnecting after initialization.
- The battery lasts a very short time or the casing is swollen.
- One driver doesn't play or you hear crackling even after a reset.
How much does a repair shop charge?
| Diagnosis at a repair shop | 0–110 zł |
| Battery replacement | 200–480 zł |
| Replacing ear pads or the headband | 110–340 zł |
| Repairing the board, port or buttons | 270–610 zł |
Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.
Repair or buy new?
Resetting and re-pairing costs 0 zł and solves most problems. If that doesn't help, replacing the battery in a pricier model is usually worth it. For older headphones with several faults at once, use the calculator to see whether a new pair makes more sense.
Check if repairing your headphones is worth it
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Open the calculator →FAQ
Does resetting Sony headphones delete the pairings?
A normal reset with the cable doesn't. Initialization (POWER and NC/AMB for 7 seconds) erases all pairings and settings.
Why do my headphones see my phone but won't connect?
Most often it's an old pairing. Remove the headphones from your phone's Bluetooth list and pair them again from the start.
Can I connect the headphones to two devices at once?
Many Sony models support connecting to two devices, but it depends on the model and the app settings. Check in the Headphones Connect app.