Overview
- Multiple outlets and reputable leakers published corroborating reports on Friday, Aug. 7, saying Sony plans a refreshed WH-1000XM4C that revives the 2020 design in a new, cheaper SKU.
- The leaks identify the model as WH-1000XM4C and list color options of Platinum Silver, Black, and Lavender while saying Sony will largely reuse the original XM4 hardware.
- Leaked specs describe the headphones keeping Sony’s QN1 noise‑canceling chip, spatial audio and hi‑res support plus earcup touch controls while trimming battery life to about 34 hours (27 hours with ANC).
- Retail pricing shown in the leaks is €249.99 / £219.99 which implies roughly $250–$300 in the U.S., though regional pricing and currency conversion can change the final U.S. price.
- Dealabs and other reports give an early-September launch date (reportedly Sept. 7) but no vendor or Sony has confirmed the model, and ongoing XM5/XM6 discounts show clear market pressure for a lower-priced option.