When we think of wireless headphones, Sony is the first brand that pops into our heads – and given the stellar reputation of its Bluetooth cans, it makes sense why.
In fact, the brand's six-year-old WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones still top my personal list of the best wireless headphones to this day, and I continue to see countless pairs on the heads of commuters daily.
That said, I and our annual What Hi-Fi? Awards list alike have moved on to the current five-star WH-1000XM6; although it looks like Sony isn't quite ready to let go of the old XM4 model just yet.
A new leak reported by French retail publication Dealabs suggests that Sony is preparing to launch a new version of its beloved wireless headphones, which are expected to be called the WH-1000XM4C.
We're not sure what the "C" stands for yet, but we've theorised "Classic" and "Comeback" as potential solutions.
According to the leak, these "new" Sony cans will be practically identical to the existing pair in terms of design, functionality and driver technology, but with reportedly two very minor changes.
Battery life has reportedly been reduced to 34 hours (down from 38 hours on the original XM4 headphones), and this new "C" variant could come in a new Lavender finish alongside the existing Black and Platinum Silver colours.
While we'll have to take this leak with a pinch of salt (nothing is official until it comes from Sony itself), it's worth noting that Sony has extended the lifespan of a previous pair of headphones from its popular 1000XM-series headphones.
It launched the WH-1000XM5SA variant of its Award-winning WH-1000XM5 headphones back in October 2025 (five months after the launch of the XM6), which featured a new soft case and trimmed-down price tag. The WH-1000XM4C could be a similar affair, with a minor cosmetic change to justify an extended lifespan.
These refreshed XM4 headphones are expected to launch on 7th September, and Dealabs reports that they will be priced at £219.99 / €249.99. Interestingly, this would position the XM4C just £10 below the current widely available price for the XM5SA.
However, with their potentially sturdier and more compact design, the XM4C could be the more alluring choice. They could also be a preferable choice for those who are eyeing up Sony's premium headphone offerings, but don't want to spend big on the XM6 or 1000X The Collexion cans.
We'll bring you the any official news of the rumoured XM4C model if and when details are confirmed.
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Check out our picks for the best Sony headphones
As well as the best wireless headphones
