Sony WF-1000XM5 v4.0.2 update brings Google Fast Pair via LE Audio, Find My Device, and Auto Switch

Sony’s latest firmware update, version 4.0.2, for its flagship WF-1000XM5 earbuds brings a mix of smart connectivity, improved stability, and more immersive audio experiences. But what’s really turning heads is how this update ushers in a trio of Google-powered goodies, giving your earbuds a serious upgrade in convenience and functionality.

First up, Auto Switch — a feature that lets your buds hop between connected devices based on whichever one is receiving a call — is finally making its debut on the WF-1000XM5. It’s been a bit of an exclusive club until now. Previously, only Pixel Buds were enjoying this Android tool, and then Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro 2 joined the fun earlier this year. Now, Sony users can slide right into this seamless switching party. Imagine watching a video on your tablet, and when a call comes through on your phone, your earbuds auto-switch over without you lifting a finger. It’s like your tech reading your mind (or at least your notifications).

But that’s not all — Google Fast Pair through LE Audio is also stepping into the spotlight. This feature has been part of Android’s Bluetooth LE Audio experience but mostly limited to Android 15 devices. It’s a tad curious that Sony didn’t drop the Android 15 tag in this update, but hey, Fast Pair is here, so we’re not complaining. Whether you’re pairing your buds with a new phone or just swapping between devices, Fast Pair speeds things up and cuts out the tedious manual reconnections.

And let’s not forget about Google’s Find My Device network, now available for the WF-1000XM5, joining Sony’s WH-1000XM5 in the find-it-before-you-lose-it game. Now, if your earbuds wander off (which they will, because they always do), you can track them down through Google’s handy network. You don’t have to tear up the couch cushions or play the “where’s my buds?” game anymore.

Aside from these headline Google features, the update also brings improvements in audio stability and Bluetooth connection quality, alongside Quick Access support for Amazon Music (although this is region-specific). With LE Audio support expanding (especially for Xperia phones) and enhanced stability during gameplay, it’s clear Sony’s making big moves to keep these buds among the best in the business.

Ready to unlock all these new features? Just make sure you’ve got an Android device running version 9.0 or later (or iOS 15.0 if you’re on the Apple side), grab the latest version of the Sony | Sound Connect app (v11.0 or later), and hit that update button.

Below is the full changelog:

Benefits and Improvements

• Adds support for the following features:
• Auto Switch
• Google Fast Pair through LE Audio priority connection
• The new Google’s Find My Device (only during dedicated Classic Audio connection)

Other benefits and improvements

• Improves the operational stability of the headphones during music playback
• Expanded the number of supported LE Audio devices
• Improved the Bluetooth connection stability under specific conditions
• Adds Quick Access support for Amazon Music
Note: Depending on your country or region, this benefit may not be available.
• Adds support for the use of the LE Audio feature with Xperia 1 V and Xperia 5 V smartphones
• Improves overall functionality
• Adds support for the beta version of LE Audio, which is optimal for games, etc.
Note: An Xperia 1 IV or Xperia 5 IV phone is required (updated to the latest version of the smartphone software)
• Improves the hands-free calling quality

Featured image: Sony