Apple AirPods Max 2 was announced on March 25

Apple has officially announced the Apple AirPods Max 2. Powered by the company’s H2 chip, Apple says the new model introduces strong active noise cancellation, dynamic audio features, and creative tools. They also offer smart new features and improved wired audio support. The release marks the long-awaited successor to the original AirPods Max, which were first introduced with the Apple H1 chip in December 2020.

After three consecutive iterations, the Apple AirPods Max 2 adorns a feature that is almost identical to its predecessor. The stainless steel frame, swivel ear cups, and mesh headband remain unchanged. Therefore, Apple’s latest headphones will probably weigh 386g and not have an IP rating. AirPods Max 2 retains Apple’s Digital Crown control system. However, Apple has not confirmed that the cans can be turned off, and the questionable carry case remains the same.

Like the updated model, AirPods Max 2 features 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 can benefit music production workflows in apps like Logic Pro and playback on iOS, macOS, and iPadOS.

Apple says the new headphones include more recycled materials as part of the company’s broader sustainability goals. For example, they use 100% recycled rare earth materials 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 claims that the packaging is 100% fiber-based, making it easy to recycle.

The biggest upgrade of the AirPods Max 2 is from the H1 chip to the new Apple H2 processor. Apple already uses H2 in recent models, such as Apple AirPods Pro (third generation), enabling improved sound processing and dynamic features. According to Apple, the H2 chip delivers up to 1.5× more effective noise cancellation than the previous generation.

“With the incredible performance of the H2, AirPods Max have been upgraded with up to 1.5 times ANC for all-day listening,” said Eric Treski, Apple’s director of Audio Product Marketing. Apple says the improved ANC helps reduce environmental noise, including airplane engines and passenger trains.

In addition to improved ANC, AirPods Max 2 also updates Transparency mode. Apple says that the new digital signal processing algorithm optimized for the H2 chip and the headphone microphone array allows external sounds to come through naturally. This improvement relies on Apple’s computer audio processing, which analyzes natural sound and adjusts playback in real time.

The H2 chip enables a series of software features that appeared in newer AirPods models but weren’t available in the original AirPods Max. This includes Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts noise cancellation and transparency based on your environment. You’ll also get conversation awareness, which lowers playback volume when you start talking, and Live Translation (powered by Apple Intelligence) to manually translate conversations. Voice Isolation puts your voice first during calls while reducing background noise, and Custom Volume adjusts playback based on listening preferences over time. You get Siri interaction to respond to announcements by nodding or shaking your head. Apple says these features aim to make the listening experience responsive and personalized throughout the day.

Tools for creators

Apple is also introducing several new capabilities aimed at content creators. For example, Apple says AirPods Max 2 supports studio-quality audio recording, allowing interviewers, podcasters, and musicians to capture high-quality audio with natural-sounding voices. The headphones also include a camera remote feature that allows users to 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 ambient noise while preserving sound quality.

Apple AirPods Max 2: Price and Availability

Apple AirPods Max 2 starts at $549 in the United States and comes in Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue colorways. Customers can place orders starting March 25, with shipping availability and sales expected in early April. Apple says new buyers can get three months of Apple Music when they buy the headphones, subject to eligibility.