Sony WF-1000XM4 firmware update, version 1.6.1

Sony Asia has finally released a new firmware update for the WF-1000XM4. This firmware supposedly fixes the battery drain, but we will have to wait and see what users say. Looking at other Sony support sites like Europe or Americas, no 1.6.1 update yet.

• Reduces the burden on the battery
• Reduces the loss of battery capacity due to long-term use

The update also includes the changes in the unreleased 1.5.0 firmware. Unfortunately we have no idea what changes that update brought since it was never released.

It seems that this update may, MAY, result in a SHORTER battery life (depending on usage).

Update – Sony has removed this information off their site, but I would upgrade with caution to 1.6.1.

Second, Sony has a “guide” for what to do if there is a difference in battery life even after the update. They do mention here, that one unit acts as the main unit and this is why it drains more battery. But a significant difference according to Sony should not be occurring. So here are the steps Sony wants you to do in order to fix your battery drain problem.

1. Fully charge the headphones.
2. Launch the Sony | Headphones Connect app, and connect the device and the headphones via Bluetooth.
3. Make the following settings on the Sony | Headphones Connect app, and play any music:
   • Volume: Middle
   • CODEC: AAC
   • DSEE Extreme: OFF
   • Noise Canceling: ON
   • Other settings: OFF
4. Play the music on the connected device, and check to see if the music plays for more than 3 hours.

Note: The CODEC depends on the music files you are playing. You can check the CODEC using the Sony | Headphones Connect app.

Finally, Sony notes at the bottom of their instructions:

When using the specified settings, if the music plays for less than 3 hours, the headphones may require servicing.

A link is provided with contact details to your local service center in order to get the earbuds serviced. Note, it says MAY require servicing, not WILL require servicing. I suspect people in various countries will have varying experiences with getting their earbuds serviced free of charge, even after the warranty period has expired.

Also as I mentioned earlier, Europe and Americas support sites still do not have the update up on their website. I am sure it is still rolling out but who knows, maybe Sony will pull the firmware if the issues continue.

Checking Europe/Americas support pages (07/12/2022), still no 1.6.1. on their pages.

With some of the problems people are still experiencing with the new firmware, I will say update at your own risk. There is MrWalkman’s firmware rollback software, see here, but for those on 1.5.0, I do not believe you will be able to roll back to that firmware, since it has not been released publicly.