The XM4C retains the familiar collapsible hinge design that distinguished its predecessor, a structural choice Sony notably abandoned with the 2022 XM5 release. While the company has moved toward more rigid architectures in recent years, the return of the foldable frame marks a concession to users who prioritized portability over the newer, fixed-chassis aesthetics. Under the hood, however, the hardware remains largely tethered to the past. The unit continues to utilize the legacy QN1 processing chip and a four-microphone array for active noise cancellation. In comparison, the XM6 model released last year features 12 microphones and the advanced QN3 processor, highlighting the technological gap between the resurrected model and Sony's current flagship offerings.
Sony Resurrects the WH-1000XM4 as the XM4C
After a multi-year hiatus, Sony is reviving its critically acclaimed WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones, reintroducing the popular foldable design that many enthusiasts felt was lost in subsequent iterations. The new WH-1000XM4C arrives with subtle technical adjustments, maintaining the classic aesthetic while updating the internal software to meet modern consumer standards.
Despite the aging hardware, Sony has refined the user experience to align with current market expectations. The XM4C now includes a 10-band equalizer accessible via the companion app—a significant upgrade over the original model's 5-band limit—and introduces a dedicated gaming preset. Connectivity also sees a generational leap with support for Bluetooth 6. Users should note a slight regression in power efficiency; the new model provides 27 hours of playback with ANC enabled, compared to the 30 hours achieved by the original XM4. The lineup now includes a lavender colorway alongside the traditional black and white finishes.
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