Sony has brought back the compact WH-1000XM4 design as the Sony WH-1000XM4C, a $299.99 noise-cancelling headset with updated sound tuning, Bluetooth 6 and gaming EQ presets. The company is positioning it below the current XM6 rather than replacing it outright, according to The Verge and Engadget.
Sony WH-1000XM4C brings back the folding XM4 design
The WH-1000XM4C keeps the original XM4’s folding hinges and overall shape. Sony has added a lavender colour option alongside black and white, while retaining the QN1 noise-cancelling processor, four microphones and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity.
The sound profile has been revised for Sony’s current range. The Headphones app now offers a 10-band equaliser rather than the older five-band version, along with a dedicated gaming preset. Sony’s product page also lists the headset as compatible with the Sound Connect app and rates it for up to 27 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled.
A lower price, with a shorter battery figure
Sony lists the WH-1000XM4C at $299.99 in the US, where it is available to pre-order. That is $150 below the WH-1000XM6’s launch price and $50 below the original XM4’s 2020 launch price, Engadget reports. A three-minute quick charge provides about one hour of playback.
The trade-off is battery life. The XM4C’s 27-hour ANC-on rating is three hours below the original XM4’s 30-hour figure, while the newer model moves to Bluetooth 6. The XM6 has Sony’s newer QN3 processor and 12 microphones, so the cheaper model is not pretending to be the flagship.
Sony has not confirmed a UAE price or launch date for the WH-1000XM4C. Its US product page lists the headset at $299.99, which converts to about AED 1,102 before VAT, shipping or local retailer pricing; that is not an official UAE price. Existing Sony XM6 and XM4 products are available through regional channels, but the XM4C was not listed on Sony’s UAE storefront when checked. For older and current models, see Sony’s WH-1000XM6 colour update and the WH-1000XM6 UAE pricing report.
Sony is also introducing the midrange WH-CH730N at $180 and the budget WH-CH530 at $70 in the US. Neither model has a confirmed UAE price in the sources checked.
How much does the Sony WH-1000XM4C cost?
Sony lists the WH-1000XM4C at $299.99 in the US. UAE pricing has not been confirmed.
How long does the WH-1000XM4C battery last?
The headset is rated for up to 27 hours with active noise cancellation enabled.
What is new on the WH-1000XM4C?
The refreshed model adds Bluetooth 6, updated sound tuning, a 10-band equaliser and a gaming EQ preset.
