# Sony revives iconic XM4 headphones with minor upgrades The legendary noise-canceling headphones return with updated features at a lower price point. - **Source:** [The Verge](https://www.theverge.com) - **Published:** 2026-09-07 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/3bdb8ece-b911-463c-a9e1-43d9386f3e67 ## The return of a legend Sony is bringing back its discontinued WH-1000XM4 headphones as the XM4C model, six years after their initial 2020 release. The original XM4s dominated best-of lists with their superior sound quality, noise cancellation, and compact design. While maintaining the same visual identity, the new version adds a lavender color option and keeps the signature folding mechanism that was abandoned in later models. This revival comes as the headphone market has evolved significantly since 2020. ## Technical specifications The XM4C retains the QN1 processing chip and four-microphone ANC system from the original, now considered dated compared to newer models. Sony has upgraded the sound profile to match current standards and added a 10-band EQ (up from 5-band) with gaming presets. Bluetooth 6 support replaces the older Bluetooth 5, though surprisingly, battery life decreases slightly from 30 to 27 hours with ANC active. The headphones maintain their compact form factor that was later changed in XM5 and XM6 models. ## Pricing strategy Priced at $300, the XM4C launches $50 cheaper than the original XM4's debut price and $100 below current XM6 models. This positions it as a mid-range option in Sony's lineup. The company is simultaneously discounting XM5 models to $200, potentially to clear inventory. Industry analysts suggest this pricing strategy aims to capture both nostalgic consumers and budget-conscious buyers in a competitive market where premium ANC headphones now regularly exceed $400. ## Market context The relaunch occurs as the headphone industry faces slowing innovation in ANC technology. While competitors like Bose and Apple have focused on spatial audio and health features, Sony appears to be capitalizing on proven success. The XM4 series sold over 10 million units worldwide before discontinuation. This move follows recent industry trends of reviving popular products, similar to Nintendo's approach with classic gaming consoles. ## Entry-level updates Alongside the XM4C, Sony updated its mid-range WH-CH730N and entry-level WH-CH530 models. Both gain the 10-band EQ and gaming presets, with the CH730N adding a folding mechanism. Battery life improvements are significant - 50 hours for CH730N and 55 for CH530 (non-ANC). A new safe mode limits maximum volume, addressing parental concerns about hearing protection, though the feature lacks locking capability. ## Hello Kitty collaboration Sony announced a limited-edition Hello Kitty bundle including XM6, CH730N, or CH530 headphones in black or pink. Each set comes with themed carrying accessories and will be exclusively available on Sony's website. Such collaborations have become increasingly common in the audio industry, with brands like JBL and Beats previously partnering with pop culture icons to target younger demographics and collectors. ## Consumer reception Early reactions are mixed - while some welcome the return of a beloved design, others question the timing. Tech reviewers note the XM4C's specifications lag behind current flagships, particularly in ANC performance where competitors now use more advanced chips and additional microphones. However, the lower price point and familiar form factor may appeal to users who found later Sony models too large or expensive. ## Strategic implications Sony's decision to revive the XM4 suggests a calculated move to extend product lifecycles in a maturing market. By maintaining production of older successful designs alongside new models, the company can address multiple price segments simultaneously. This approach mirrors strategies seen in smartphone markets, where manufacturers often keep previous-generation devices available at reduced prices to capture broader consumer demographics. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theverge.com/tech/990687/sony-announces-xm4c-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._