Sony WH-1000XM4C leak reveals possible price, colors, battery life, and release date
Sony may be getting ready to revive one of its most popular noise-cancelling headphones with a new model called the WH-1000XM4C. After an earlier rumor hinted at the return of the beloved WH-1000XM4 lineup, a new leak has now shared more details about what buyers can expect, including color options, pricing, battery life, and a possible release date.
According to well-known leaker Billbil-kun, the Sony WH-1000XM4C will be available in three colors: Platinum Silver, Black, and Lavender. The addition of Lavender could give the refreshed model a more modern look, especially for users who want something different from the usual black and silver finishes.
The leak suggests that Sony is not planning a major redesign for the WH-1000XM4C. Instead, the headphones are expected to remain very close to the original WH-1000XM4 in both appearance and core features. That may not be a bad thing, as the WH-1000XM4 earned a strong reputation for its excellent active noise cancellation, comfortable design, reliable wireless performance, and rich sound quality.
However, one difference may be battery life. The upcoming WH-1000XM4C is reportedly rated for up to 34 hours of playback with noise cancellation turned off. By comparison, the original WH-1000XM4 offered up to 38 hours under similar conditions. While this is a small downgrade on paper, 34 hours would still be more than enough for long flights, daily commuting, office use, and extended listening sessions.
At the moment, several important details remain unclear. The leak does not confirm whether Sony has changed the Bluetooth version, improved the internal components, adjusted the drivers, or made any updates to call quality and connectivity. Because of that, it is still difficult to say whether the WH-1000XM4C will be a true refresh of the original WH-1000XM4 or a more affordable “Lite” version designed to sit below Sony’s newer premium headphones.
Pricing could be one of the biggest selling points. The Sony WH-1000XM4C is expected to cost €249.99 in Europe and £219.99 in the UK. That would make it noticeably cheaper than the original WH-1000XM4, which launched in 2020 at $349.99 and £349.99. If the leaked price is accurate, Sony may be aiming to attract buyers who want premium noise-cancelling headphones without paying flagship-level prices.
The rumored release date is September 7, 2026. Sony has not officially confirmed the WH-1000XM4C yet, and there is currently no announced launch event. Still, if the leak proves accurate, the company could reveal the headphones soon.
The WH-1000XM4 remains a favorite among many headphone fans, even years after its original release. A more affordable WH-1000XM4C could be an appealing option for anyone looking for strong noise cancellation, long battery life, and a proven Sony design at a lower price. For now, buyers will have to wait for Sony’s official announcement to see exactly what has changed and whether the WH-1000XM4C can live up to the reputation of the original model.
