● Covered by 3 sources · 4 reportsMedium impact4 neutral
Sony to Re-release WH-1000XM4 Headphones as Cheaper WH-1000XM4C; WH-1000XM6 Gets New Color
Key points
- Sony to re-release WH-1000XM4 as WH-1000XM4C.
- WH-1000XM4C expected to cost around $250.
- WH-1000XM4C will have 34 hours battery life, down from 38.
- WH-1000XM6 now available in "Olive Gray" for $459.
- New WH-1000XM6 color has no hardware changes.
Sony Expands Headphone Offerings
Sony is reportedly planning to re-release its 2020 WH-1000XM4 over-ear headphones under the new designation WH-1000XM4C. This refreshed model is expected to be priced around $250, making it a more accessible option compared to Sony's current flagship headphones. Simultaneously, Sony has introduced a new "Olive Gray" color variant for its WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones, which are available for $459.
WH-1000XM4C: A More Affordable Option
The WH-1000XM4C is anticipated to feature largely unchanged hardware from the original WH-1000XM4, which launched in 2020. Key specifications like the 40mm drivers and the QN1 noise-canceling chip are expected to carry over. The primary difference will be a slightly shorter battery life, rated at 34 hours compared to the original's 38 hours. Color options for the WH-1000XM4C are expected to include "Platinum Silver," Black, and a new Lavender.
This re-release is seen as a strategy to offer a more budget-friendly alternative in the premium headphone market. The original WH-1000XM4 launched at $349.99, while the current WH-1000XM6 model starts at $459. The WH-1000XM4C is rumored to launch as early as September 7.
WH-1000XM6 Receives New Color
Sony's flagship WH-1000XM6 headphones are now available in an "Olive Gray" color. This new color, described as a "subtle earthy green tint," joins other nature-toned options like "Sand Pink" and "Sandstone." The "Olive Gray" variant introduces no changes to the hardware, active noise cancellation, audio quality, or features, including Fast Pair support for Android. It is available for purchase from Sony's website, Amazon, Best Buy, and other major retailers for $459.
Market Context
The introduction of a more affordable WH-1000XM4C could broaden Sony's market reach by providing a lower-cost entry point into its 1000X series. The WH-1000XM6, which uses the newer QN3 chip, remains Sony's premium offering. The new "Olive Gray" color for the WH-1000XM6 aligns with a trend towards nature-inspired tones, coincidentally complementing the green color options expected in Google's upcoming Pixel 11 series.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Sony is reportedly planning to re-release its 2020 flagship headphones, the WH-1000XM4, as the WH-1000XM4C, with a lower price point of around $250. This move could be a strategy to offer a more affordable option in response to rising prices for newer models.
Sony is reportedly preparing to release a more affordable version of its WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones, dubbed the WH-1000XM4C, as early as next month. This new model is expected to offer similar performance to the original WH-1000XM4 but with a lower price point and slightly reduced battery life, making the technology more accessible.
Sony is reportedly preparing to re-release its 2020 WH-1000XM4 over-ear headphones, designated as WH-1000XM4C, with a projected price of around $250. This move would offer a more affordable option compared to Sony's current flagship headphones, potentially expanding market reach.
Sony has released its WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones in a new "Olive Gray" color option, which is now available for purchase. This new color does not introduce any hardware changes or new features to the existing model.