Sony US announced the new WH-1000XM4C, based on the WH-1000XM4, the foldable WH-CH730N and the 6-color WH-CH530. Suggested retail prices and launch timing in the US were provided, while the availability of the models in Japan remained undecided, drawing attention to future developments.
The 3 models announced by Sony US on 7 September were presented as new models for overseas markets. The WH-1000XM4C was positioned as a second-generation model retaining the sound quality and noise-cancellation features of the XM4, with a color lineup including the new lavender option. The WH-CH730N adopts a foldable mechanism, while the WH-CH530 was described as a 6-color model with extended maximum playback time. Suggested retail prices and launch timing in the US were listed as USD 299.99 for the XM4C, USD 179.99 for the CH730N and USD 69.99 for the CH530, with the models scheduled to launch in autumn 2026 or September 2026.
The WH-1000XM4C comes in 3 colors: black, platinum silver and the new lavender option. Its key features include a foldable design and a 10-band equalizer. While retaining the XM4’s design, the model is said to feature revised sound tuning, and a product information page was provided on Sony’s official overseas website.
The WH-CH730N offers up to approximately 50 hours of playback with noise cancellation turned on, and its foldable structure and approximate weight of 207g were newly disclosed. Compared with previous models, it offers greater battery capacity and portability, along with LE Audio support and noise reduction during calls. The WH-CH530 is available in 6 colors and offers up to 55 hours of playback, as well as fast charging that provides approximately 1.5 hours of use from a 3-minute charge. Both models feature a 10-band equalizer in the Sony | Sound Connect app and are designed for everyday use.
Domestic developments and future outlook
For Japan, a formal announcement was made on 8 September, stating that the WH-CH730N would launch on 18 September at ¥22,000, including tax, and the WH-CH530 would launch on the same day at ¥7,700, including tax. The announcement also mentioned price revisions and inventory status for the previous WH-CH720N and WH-CH520 models, while the rollout and color options for Japan remained undecided. The developments in the overseas and domestic announcements have drawn attention to the timing and scope of the models’ rollout in the Japanese market.