Since their debut in 2020, the WH-1000XM4<\/a> headphones have held a legendary status in the audio world. While Sony eventually moved forward with the WH-1000XM5<\/a> and the more recent WH-1000XM6<\/a>-which recently received a new color<\/a> update-it appears the company isn’t quite ready to let the XM4 legacy fade into history.<\/p>\n Industry whispers suggest that Sony is preparing to breathe new life into this classic model by reintroducing it as the WH-1000XM4C. If reports hold true, this refreshed iteration is slated for a September 7 launch, carrying a price tag of \u20ac249.99 or \u00a3219.99. This pricing strategy positions the “C” variant as a more accessible entry point, effectively costing \u20ac100 less than the original MSRP of the XM4 at its initial release.<\/p>\n While the lower price point is an attractive proposition, the market landscape has shifted significantly. Savvy shoppers may find the situation puzzling, as current retail promotions often see the more advanced WH-1000XM5 selling for prices lower than the projected cost of the upcoming WH-1000XM4C. This creates a unique dilemma for consumers deciding between the latest technology and a proven, classic design.<\/p>\n Regarding technical specifications, the WH-1000XM4C remains largely faithful to its predecessor. However, there is a notable adjustment in power efficiency: the new model offers a maximum battery life of 34 hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) disabled. This represents a slight regression compared to the 38-hour endurance of the original 2020 model.<\/p>\n Sony aims to keep the aesthetic appeal fresh by offering the WH-1000XM4C in three distinct colorways: Black, Platinum Silver, and a new Lavender option. By maintaining the beloved form factor while tweaking the internal power management, Sony is betting that the comfort and sound signature of the XM4 series still hold significant value for audiophiles who prefer the foldable design of the older generation over the non-folding chassis of the newer XM5 and XM6 models.<\/p>\nA Strategic Relaunch: Meet the WH-1000XM4C<\/h3>\n
Market Positioning and Performance Trade-offs<\/h3>\n
Design and Availability<\/h3>\n