Sony Reportedly Reviving WH-1000XM4 Headphones with Lower Price
Sony plans to relaunch its 2020 flagship WH-1000XM4 headphones as the WH-1000XM4C, according to a prominent industry leak. Priced around $250, €250, and £220 for a September 7 release, the refreshed model aims to counter rising consumer hardware costs by offering a budget-friendly alternative alongside current high-end flagships.
Key points
- Sony, a major Japanese multinational technology conglomerate, is reportedly preparing to release a revised version of its 2020 flagship headphones called the WH-1000XM4C.
- According to a leak published on Dealabs by tipster billbil-kun, the device is slated for a September 7 launch with expected retail prices of $240 to $250 in the United States, €250 in Europe, and £220 in the United Kingdom.
- The upcoming headphones are expected to retain core hardware features from the original model, including 40mm drivers, active noise-cancellation processing, and a foldable design.
- Reported technical adjustments include a slight decrease in battery life, rated at 27 hours with active noise cancellation enabled and 34 hours without it, alongside a new lavender color option joining black and platinum silver.
- Industry observers note the launch introduces a more affordable option positioned below Sony's newer WH-1000XM6 flagship, which retails for roughly $460 in the United States and €470 in Europe.
Sony is reportedly preparing to reintroduce one of its most successful audio products to combat rising global hardware prices. Industry reports indicate that the company plans to revive its discontinued WH-1000XM4 headphones under a new moniker, the WH-1000XM4C. This strategic move aims to capture budget-conscious consumers by offering a proven high-end design at a substantially reduced price point compared to current market flagships.
According to leaks originating from Dealabs, the upcoming device is scheduled for release on September 7. Pricing is expected to be set at approximately $240 to $250 in the United States, €250 across Europe, and £220 in the United Kingdom. For context, Sony's newer WH-1000XM6 model currently retails for around $460 in the US and €470 in the EU, positioning the newly planned variant as a significantly cheaper alternative within the company's existing audio lineup.
Hardware specifications for the refreshed model are expected to closely mirror the 2020 predecessor. The leak suggests the device will maintain its signature foldable structure, 40mm drivers, and dedicated noise-canceling processor. However, minor alterations include a slight reduction in battery performance, now rated for up to 27 hours with active noise cancellation enabled and 34 hours with the feature turned off, down from the original specifications. Aesthetic updates will reportedly feature black and platinum silver alongside a newly introduced lavender colorway.
Sources
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