Sony has unveiled the WH-1000XM4C, a second-generation version of the WH-1000XM4 wireless noise-cancelling headphones originally introduced in 2020. Rather than replacing its latest flagship models, Sony is bringing back one of its most popular headphone platforms with updated sound tuning, expanded EQ controls and a refreshed color lineup.
The WH-1000XM4C retains the familiar over-ear design, foldable construction and 1000X-series noise-cancelling technology of the original WH-1000XM4 while updating the product for today’s wireless listening environment.
A Second Generation of the WH-1000XM4
The WH-1000XM4C is based on the architecture of the original WH-1000XM4, a model that remained popular long after newer generations arrived.
Sony says the new model preserves the noise-cancelling performance, sound quality and comfort that helped establish the WH-1000XM4 as one of the company’s most successful wireless headphones, while introducing revised sound tuning aimed at current listening preferences.
Personalization has also been expanded with a new 10-band equalizer, giving users finer control over the tonal balance than before.
The WH-1000XM4C will be offered in Black and Platinum Silver, along with a new Lavender finish that will be available through Sony and selected retailers.
Proven 1000X-Series Noise Cancelling
Sony continues to position its 1000X-series noise-cancelling technology as one of the key features of the WH-1000XM4C.
The headphones are designed to reduce ambient noise in environments such as public transport, offices and busy urban spaces, allowing listeners to focus more closely on music and other audio content.
The lightweight foldable design of the original WH-1000XM4 is also retained, maintaining the model’s emphasis on portability and everyday use for commuting, travel and remote work.
Rather than competing directly with Sony’s current WH-1000XM6 flagship, the WH-1000XM4C provides another option based on a well-established and widely recognized platform.
Updated Sound Tuning and 10-Band EQ
One of the most notable changes in the WH-1000XM4C is not a completely new hardware platform, but the modernization of its sound and software features.
Sony says the headphones feature newly adjusted sound tuning, while the addition of a 10-band equalizer provides more detailed control over frequency response and personal listening preferences.
The WH-1000XM4C also supports modern wireless convenience features including multipoint connectivity, Fast Pair, Swift Pair and LE Audio compatibility.
The overall approach is therefore less about reinventing the WH-1000XM4 and more about retaining its established strengths while bringing the platform closer to current wireless headphone expectations.
Sony Brings Back a Proven Design
The WH-1000XM4C represents an unusual approach to product development.
Sony has already moved through the WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM6 generations, yet the company has chosen to return to a design first introduced six years ago.
The original WH-1000XM4 continued to attract users even after newer models arrived, particularly because of its foldable construction, comfort and established noise-cancelling performance.
The WH-1000XM4C allows Sony to capitalize on that continued demand without developing an entirely new hardware platform. Instead, the company is updating a proven design with revised software, tuning and features.
At a time when consumer electronics are often replaced by entirely new generations at increasingly short intervals, the decision to revive a successful older platform is an interesting alternative approach.
Priced at $299.99 in the US
The Sony WH-1000XM4C is priced at $299.99 in the United States and is scheduled to become available this fall.
Black and Platinum Silver finishes will be widely available, while the new Lavender version will be offered through Sony and selected retailers.
Sony has also refreshed the rest of its wireless headphone lineup alongside the WH-1000XM4C, introducing the mid-range WH-CH730N at $179.99 and the entry-level WH-CH530 at $69.99.
Rather than focusing exclusively on new flagship technology, the WH-1000XM4C demonstrates Sony’s willingness to revisit a successful previous-generation product and reposition it for today’s market.
Sony New Room : https://sony.mediaroom.com/2026-09-07-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-WH-1000XM4C-M4..
Sony Store : https://electronics.sony.com/audio/headphones/headband/p/wh1000xm4c-v