Sony revives iconic XM4 headphones with minor upgrades
The legendary noise-canceling headphones return with updated features at a lower price point.
1The Return of a Legend
Six years after their initial release, Sony is bringing back its acclaimed WH-1000XM4 headphones as the XM4C model. The original XM4s dominated best-of lists with superior sound quality, effective ANC, and compact design until being discontinued in 2025. This revival comes with minor but meaningful upgrades while maintaining the beloved form factor that Sony temporarily abandoned with subsequent models.
2Design and Hardware
The XM4C retains the identical folding design of its predecessor, now available in a new lavender color option. Internally, it keeps the aging but capable QN1 processing chip and 4-microphone ANC array from the original - a configuration Sony has since improved with 8 mics in XM5 and 12 mics plus QN3 chip in XM6. While the core technology shows its age, the compact folding mechanism remains a standout feature that later models sacrificed.
3Technical Upgrades
Sony enhanced the XM4C with several modernizations: a 10-band EQ (up from 5-band), a dedicated gaming preset, and Bluetooth 6 support. Surprisingly, battery life decreased slightly to 27 hours with ANC (down from 30 hours). The $300 launch price represents a $50 reduction from the original XM4 debut and undercuts current XM6 pricing by $100, positioning it as a value proposition in Sony's lineup.
4Market Context
The relaunch comes amid an increasingly competitive headphone market where Sony continues battling Bose for ANC supremacy. While the XM4C's return may confuse some given the availability of newer models like the $200 XM5, it fills a gap for consumers seeking the XM4's specific compact folding design that later iterations modified. The move suggests Sony sees ongoing demand for this particular form factor.
5Complementary Releases
Alongside the XM4C, Sony updated its mid-range WH-CH730N and entry-level WH-CH530 models. Both gain the same 10-band EQ and gaming preset, with the CH730N adding a more compact folding design. Battery life improvements are significant - 50 hours for CH730N and 55 hours for CH530 (without ANC). A new safe mode allows volume limiting, useful for parents though lacking lock functionality.
6Pricing and Availability
The WH-CH530 launches at $70 in six colors, while the WH-CH730N costs $180 in five color options. Both are available immediately. The XM4C arrives later in fall 2026. Sony also announced limited-edition Hello Kitty bundles featuring various headphone models with themed accessories, available exclusively through Sony's website later this year.
7Industry Perspective
Sony's decision to revive a six-year-old headphone model is unusual in the fast-moving consumer electronics space. It reflects both the XM4's enduring popularity and potential gaps in Sony's current lineup. While newer models offer technological advancements, the XM4C provides a familiar, proven design at a competitive price point that may appeal to specific consumer preferences.
8Consumer Implications
The XM4C offers a compelling option for buyers prioritizing compact folding design over cutting-edge ANC performance. Its $300 price undercuts current flagship models while delivering most of the original XM4's acclaimed performance. However, with the XM5 available at $200 and XM6 representing the latest technology, consumers must weigh design preferences against technological currency in their purchasing decision.
Original article: The Verge (theverge.com) — Sony revives iconic XM4 headphones with minor upgrades