TOKYO, August 8 — Sony is preparing to relaunch its WH-1000XM4 wireless noise-canceling headphones at a markedly lower price point, nearly six years after the model first hit shelves. The announcement, made in early 2025 by Sony Interactive Entertainment and Sony Corporation, confirms that the WH-1000XM4 — originally released in August 2020 — will return to market with a discount of roughly 25 to 30 percent off its initial retail price.
The original model launched in the United States at approximately $349.99; the relaunched version is now priced at around $249.99, according to multiple retail listings verified in January 2025. Notably, the relaunched units retain the same core features that earned the WH-1000XM4 widespread critical acclaim upon its debut.
These include industry-leading active noise cancellation technology, up to 30 hours of battery life, DSEE Extreme upscaling, and multipoint Bluetooth connectivity supporting two devices simultaneously. The headphones also use the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1 and support the SBC, AAC, and aptX HD codecs.
Critical Reception and Market Legacy
The WH-1000XM4 received a 90+ aggregate score on Metacritic following its 2020 release, and was named one of the best noise-canceling headphones by major tech publications including The Verge, CNET, and TechRadar. Sony has not publicly disclosed the full rationale behind the relaunch. However, industry analysts suggest the move aligns with the company’s strategy of extending the lifecycle of successful products while clearing inventory ahead of newer model launches.
The discounted relaunch strategy mirrors Sony’s previous approach with the WH-1000XM3, which saw price reductions following the release of subsequent models. Analysts note that the WH-1000XM4 relaunch coincides with the upcoming release of the WH-1000XM6, expected in late 2025.
As of February 2025, the relaunched WH-1000XM4 units are available through Sony’s official website and select retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo.
Company Background and Financial Standing
Sony Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, was founded in 1946 and is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of consumer electronics. The company reported revenue of approximately $85 billion in its fiscal year ending March 2024. With the WH-1000XM6 on the horizon, the relaunched WH-1000XM4 serves as both a transitional offering and a potential entry point into Sony’s noise-canceling ecosystem.
This move may provide a clearer tier of options for consumers. Industry watchers will be keen to see how the WH-1000XM6 differentiates itself from its predecessor, and whether Sony’s staggered release strategy continues to resonate in an increasingly competitive headphone market.
The relaunch of the WH-1000XM4 may prove to be a strategic move — keeping a proven product in circulation while building anticipation for what comes next.
Sources
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