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Apple AirPods Max 2: Everything you need to know
- Apple has officially announced its long-awaited Apple AirPods Max 2 over-ear headphones.
- Fitted with the company's H2 chip, they feature ANC that's reportedly 1.5x more effective than their predecessor.
- The cans will be available to order starting March 25, with availability beginning early next month.
Apple has officially announced the Apple AirPods Max 2. Powered by the company’s H2 chip, Apple claims the new model introduces stronger active noise cancellation, adaptive audio features, and creator tools. They also offer new intelligent features and improved wired audio support. The release marks the long-awaited successor to the original AirPods Max, which first launched with Apple’s H1 chip in December 2020.
Apple AirPods Max 2: Design
After three successive iterations, the Apple AirPods Max 2 adorn a virtually identical form factor to their predecessor. The stainless steel frame, rotating ear cups, and mesh headband remain unchanged. Consequently, Apple’s latest headphones will likely weigh approximately 386g and lack an IP rating. The AirPods Max 2 retain Apple’s Digital Crown control system. However, Apple hasn’t confirmed whether the cans can be powered off, and the questionable carry case remains the same.
Like the updated model, the AirPods Max 2 feature a USB-C charging port. However, it also supports 24-bit, 48kHz lossless audio when connected using the included USB-C cable. Apple says this wired connection enables ultra-low-latency audio, which may benefit music production workflows in apps such as Logic Pro and gaming on iOS, macOS, and iPadOS.
Apple says the new headphones incorporate several recycled materials as part of the company’s broader sustainability goals. For example, they use 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnets, 100% recycled polyester in the ear cushions, and 100% recycled gold plating and tin solder in Apple-designed circuit boards. Apple also says the packaging is 100% fiber-based, making it easier to recycle.
Apple AirPods Max 2: Features and specs
The biggest upgrade to AirPods Max 2 is the move from the H1 chip to Apple’s newer H2 processor. Apple already uses H2 in recent models, such as the Apple AirPods Pro (3rd generation), powering advanced audio processing and adaptive features. According to Apple, the H2 chip delivers noise cancellation that is up to 1.5× more effective than the previous generation.
“With the incredible performance of H2, AirPods Max are upgraded with up to 1.5x more effective ANC for the ultimate all-day listening experience,” said Eric Treski, Apple’s director of Audio Product Marketing. Apple says the updated ANC helps reduce more environmental noise, including airplane engines and commuter trains.
Apple's H2 chip brings Adaptive Audio and other advanced features.
In addition to improved ANC, the AirPods Max 2 also update Transparency mode. Apple says a new digital signal processing algorithm optimized for the H2 chip and the headphone’s microphone array allows outside sounds to pass through more naturally. These improvements rely on Apple’s computational audio processing, which analyzes environmental sound and adjusts playback in real time.
The H2 chip enables a range of software features that have appeared on newer AirPods models but were not available on the original AirPods Max. This includes Adaptive Audio, which automatically balances noise canceling and transparency based on your environment. You’ll also receive Conversation Awareness, which lowers playback volume when you start speaking, and Live Translation (powered by Apple Intelligence) for translating conversations in person. Voice Isolation prioritizes your voice during calls while reducing background noise, and Personalized Volume adjusts playback based on listening preferences over time. You receive Siri interactions to respond to announcements by nodding or shaking your head. Apple says these features aim to make the listening experience more responsive and personalized throughout the day.
Tools for creators
Apple also introduces several new capabilities aimed at content creators. For example, Apple claims that the AirPods Max 2 support studio-quality audio recording, allowing interviewers, podcasters, and musicians to capture higher-quality audio with more natural-sounding vocals. The headphones also include a camera remote feature that lets users press the Digital Crown to trigger photos or start and stop video recording in the Camera app or supported third-party apps. Another addition is Loud Sound Reduction, which reduces exposure to loud environmental noise while preserving the sound quality.
Apple AirPods Max 2: Price and availability
The Apple AirPods Max 2 start at $549 in the United States and come in Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue colorways. Customers can place orders beginning March 25, with shipping and retail availability expected in early April. Apple says new buyers may also receive three months of Apple Music when purchasing the headphones, depending on eligibility.
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