Leaked information suggests Sony may launch a budget-friendly version of its WH-1000XM4 headphones.

After the launch of its high-end $650 The Collexion headphones in May, Sony seems poised to introduce a more budget-friendly option in its 1000X line of wireless noise-canceling headphones next month. Reports suggest that the company is working on a refreshed version of the WH-1000XM4, which originally debuted six years ago. This new model is expected to deliver similar performance and specifications as its predecessor but at a more accessible price, according to reliable sources.

The WH-1000XM4C is anticipated to hit the market in early September 2026, available in black, silver, and lavender, with a price tag of €249.99 or £219.99, translating to approximately $289 to $297 after currency conversion. The original WH-1000XM4 launched in 2020 for $349.99, while the WH-1000XM6 arrived at a higher price of $449 last year.

The upcoming 1000XM4C will feature active noise cancellation powered by Sony’s QN1 chip (the 1000XM6 utilizes the newer QN3 chip), spatial audio capabilities, support for high-resolution audio, and touch controls on the earcups. The only downside noted in the leaks is a slight reduction in battery life for the new model. The original 1000XM4 offered up to 38 hours of playback with ANC off and up to 30 hours with it on. In contrast, the 1000XM4C will provide up to 34 hours of playback or up to 27 hours with ANC activated.

Despite two significant updates to Sony’s 1000X headphone series since the launch of the 1000XM4, many fans still appreciate the design of the older model. The 2022 1000XM5 introduced a major redesign that removed the folding earcups, resulting in a larger carrying case. The 1000XM6 brought back the folding mechanism and added a wider, more comfortable headband, but some users, myself included, still favor the design of the 1000XM4. For those of us with aging models that are experiencing diminished battery life, the 1000XM4C could serve as an excellent replacement.