According to a recent leak, Sony might be planning a surprise comeback for one of its most popular headphones. The speculation stems from a report by 9to5Google, a website specializing in Android and Google, which was subsequently picked up by the renowned U.S. tech magazine Engadget. According to the report, Sony is working on a new version of the WH-1000XM4, which these sources say will be unveiled in September 2026. The new model is expected to be released under the name WH-1000XM4C and retain many of the strengths of the original model tested by STEREO GUIDE in 2021—at a significantly lower price.
The original WH-1000XM4 was released back in 2020 and continues to enjoy cult status to this day. In our review of the Sony WH-1000XM4, it impressed us with its excellent noise cancellation, balanced sound, high level of comfort, and extensive features. Particular praise was given to its natural sound signature, excellent speech intelligibility, and practical features such as multipoint Bluetooth and Sony’s intelligent adaptation of noise cancellation to the environment.
Tried-and-true technology at a lower price
According to the leaked information, the new WH-1000XM4C is expected to largely retain the successful basic design. This includes, among other things:
- Active Noise Cancellation with Sony’s proven QN1 processor
- High-Resolution Audio Support
- Spatial Audio
- Touch controls on the ear cups
- The XM4’s compact, foldable design
The main difference cited is a slightly shorter battery life. Instead of up to 38 hours without ANC or 30 hours with noise cancellation enabled, the XM4C is said to last around 34 and 27 hours, respectively. The price is reported to be 249.99 euros or 219.99 pounds.
Why would Sony bring back the XM4 of all things?
However, from STEREO GUIDE’s perspective, it’s not yet entirely clear whether Sony is actually positioning the WH-1000XM4C as a more affordable entry-level model. While the leaks mention a lower MSRP and a slightly shorter battery life, the technical differences seem surprisingly minor so far. The design largely matches that of the familiar XM4, and the tried-and-true QN1 processor is also expected to remain in use. A mere three hours less battery life alone is unlikely to account for the price difference.
It’s also possible that Sony is using internally upgraded and now more affordable components—such as in the Bluetooth circuitry, power supply, or memory—without fundamentally changing the successful overall design. It’s also possible that the “XM4C” designation refers not so much to a budget model as to a “Classic” version that will remain in the lineup alongside the premium WH-1000XM6 model. Sony’s actual strategy will likely only become clear with an official announcement.
The fact that Sony is reportedly bringing back the XM4 under a new name seems unusual, especially since the original model is still available in stores today. If the WH-1000XM4C does indeed come out, Sony will likely have to offer more than just a new model name. So far, the leaks have only mentioned a slightly reduced battery life—not enough to conclusively explain the existence of a second XM4 variant.
The latest WH-1000XM6 impressed in our test
In our review of the Sony WH-1000XM6 , we concluded that Sony has consistently addressed the shortcomings of the XM5, which was manufactured from 2022 to 2025, and has further solidified its top position in the premium segment:
With a more affordable XM4C, Sony could now offer an attractive alternative for buyers who find the XM6 too expensive or who prefer the compact design of the successful XM4.
However, this is still just a leak. Sony has not yet made an official announcement.
