Sony dusts off its ancient headphones for a surprising 2026 comeback

Sony has been busy this year, putting out a fancy set of anniversary headphones. But at $650, the 1000X 'The Collexion' are headphones that few mainstream audio fans would probably buy. Well, it seems the company is preparing another product launch as early as next month.

But this one may be painfully familiar.

New headphones with familiar XM4 DNA are coming

Possible specs of the Sony WH-1000XM4C. | Image by Dealabs

According to a fresh leak (machine translated), Sony is working on a new set of headphones called the WH-1000XM4C. The familiar name is no coincidence: supposedly, the headset will be a variant of the XM4, which was released back in 2020.

Reportedly, the over-ear Bluetooth headphones will come in three distinct color options: Lavender, Platinum Silver and Black, while their debut could be set for September 7, 2026.

Feature-wise, the upcoming headphones are rumored to share the specs and features of the XM4, including the QN1 HD noise-canceling processor. Special features like Bluetooth multipoint and personalized spatial audio are also expected to land on the upcoming model, though it might have a slightly lower battery life of up to 34 hours (with ANC off).

The report also gives us a possible asking price for the model: €249.99 / £219.99 (~$289.08 via direct conversion).

Would you consider buying the Sony WH-1000XM4C?

Worth waiting for?

If you aren't keen on waiting another month just to see a six-year-old model get a mild refresh, you probably shouldn't hold your breath for the XM4C.

Instead, now that it's on sale with a 38% discount, the XM5 is a tempting alternative. This version debuted in 2022 with better ANC performance and audio quality, showing Sony's continuous innovation.

Although the XM4C could tip the scales with a slightly lower asking price, it's still worth keeping your eye out on deals on more contemporary versions if you're after new Sony headphones right now. I mean, why wait for a refreshed older model when you can get a newer product at around the same price?

The bigger picture

It remains unclear whether the rumored XM4C's asking price of around $300 will be justified, as the leak doesn't give us the full spec list.

Still, it has a chance of success if Sony officially retires the original XM4. In that case, the XM4C would become the mid-tier bridge between budget options and the top-end XM5 or XM6.

I'm not convinced

The XM4 look contemporary despite their age, though. | Image by PhoneArena

For me, the jury is still out. If the upcoming Sony WH-1000XM4C ends up offering upgrades on some fronts, it might work as a cheaper alternative to the XM5 and XM6.

However, if the headphones match the specs of the XM4 (again, these are six years old!), while offering a shorter battery life, I have a hard time seeing their mainstream appeal.

And in case you want more audio news:

The next self-proclaimed iPhone killer may be a mobile smart speaker
Explore our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM4

$90

$210

$120 off (57%)

Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.

Buy at Mint Mobile

View Full Bio

Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.

Read the latest from Polina Kovalakova