Sony WH-1000XM4C

Sony Revives a Headphone Favorite

The WH-1000XM4C appears to bring back Sony’s well-liked WH-1000XM4 as a less expensive alternative to its newer flagship headphones. Leaked images show the familiar folding over-ear design almost untouched, now offered in black, lavender, and a pale finish that looks closer to white than its reported Platinum Silver name.

Bluetooth Moves Forward While Battery Steps Back

The clearest upgrade is Bluetooth 6.0, replacing the original model’s Bluetooth 5.0 radio. That newer specification does not guarantee better real-world connectivity by itself, but it gives the revived headphone a surprisingly current wireless foundation—even newer on paper than the Bluetooth version in Sony’s WH-1000XM6.

Some compromises help separate the XM4C from the original. Listed battery life falls to 27 hours with noise cancellation and 34 hours without it, versus 30 and 38 hours before, and the missing NFC mark suggests tap-to-pair support may be gone.

The Sound Hardware Stays Put

The 40mm drivers and 4Hz-to-40,000Hz frequency range appear unchanged, preserving the acoustic hardware behind the XM4’s enduring reputation. If Sony also retains its sound and noise-canceling performance, the modest omissions could be an easy trade for a lower entry price.

A September 7 launch and a price near €250 have leaked, compared with the original’s €379 European debut. Sony has not formally introduced the WH-1000XM4C yet.