# Sony Might Reboot Its 2020 Flagship Headphones Responding to price hikes by reviving an older model. - **Source:** [Engadget](https://www.engadget.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-07 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/16bd2f23-d6da-451f-9a8d-c4d47e395f3b ## Sony's New Strategy Sony plans to reintroduce an older model to offer customers a more affordable option amid rising prices. The WH-1000XM4C, expected to be announced, will be an updated version of the 2020 WH-1000XM4. It is anticipated to retail for around $250. ## Changes in Features The new model's technical specifications will largely remain the same as the original XM4. The foldable design, 40mm drivers, and noise-canceling processor will be retained. The only differences are a slight decrease in battery life and new color options. The battery is expected to last 34 hours without ANC and 27 hours with ANC. ## Color Options The WH-1000XM4C is said to come in black, platinum silver, and a new lavender color. These options aim to offer users a wider range of choices. The lavender color, in particular, stands out as a new addition not seen in previous models. ## Release Date and Price Sony is expected to launch the new model on September 7, 2024. It will be priced at €250 in Europe and £220 in the UK. In the US, it is projected to retail for around $240-$250. ## Comparison with Current Models The WH-1000XM4C will serve as a more affordable alternative to the current WH-1000XM6, which retails for $460 in the US and €470 in the EU. The XM5 is often discounted to around $250, making it a potentially better choice for consumers. ## Industry Implications Sony's move suggests that other companies might adopt similar strategies in response to rising costs. Bringing back older models could become a way to offer consumers more affordable products. This could potentially start a new trend in the industry. ## Consumer Preferences Consumers may prefer the new model for its lower price, despite its technical similarities to the older model. However, the availability of more advanced models like the XM5 at discounted prices could complicate their decision. The better choice will depend on the specific needs of the users. ## Sony's Future Plans Sony's strategy provides hints about the company's future product plans. By reintroducing older models, Sony can reduce costs and offer more affordable products to consumers, potentially strengthening its competitive edge. This strategy could also serve as an example for other tech giants. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.engadget.com/2232687/sony-might-be-rebooting-its-2020-flagship-headphones/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._