Apple has announced AirPods Max 2, an updated version of its over-ear headphones with improved Active Noise Cancellation, enhanced sound quality, and a number of new software features. Powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the headphones also bring capabilities such as Adaptive Audio, Live Translation, and studio-quality recording to the lineup.
Apple says the H2 chip plays a central role in the latest update, offering stronger computational audio processing across several listening modes.
Active Noise Cancellation is rated up to 1.5x more effective than the previous model, reducing environmental sounds such as airplane engines or commuter trains so users can stay focused on music, calls, or other audio.
Transparency mode also receives improvements through updated signal processing that works with the headphone’s microphone array, allowing surrounding sounds to come through in a more natural way when users need to stay aware of their environment.
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“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. “The sound quality is remarkably clean, rich, and acoustically detailed — and when combined with capabilities like Personalized Spatial Audio, AirPods Max 2 deliver a profoundly immersive experience.”
AirPods Max 2 sound
Sound quality has been updated through a new high dynamic range amplifier that delivers cleaner audio output while maintaining the sound profile associated with the original AirPods Max. The change reportedly improves instrument separation and spatial accuracy while keeping bass response consistent and mids and highs sounding natural.
AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit, 48kHz lossless audio when connected using a USB-C cable. That wired connection also reduces wireless audio latency.
The updated headphones include several new intelligent features. Adaptive Audio will now automatically adjust the balance between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency depending on surrounding noise levels. Conversation Awareness lowers playback volume and reduces background noise when the user begins speaking with someone nearby.
Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence, promises in-person communication between people speaking different languages. Voice Isolation improves call clarity by prioritizing the speaker’s voice while filtering background noise during conversations.
AirPods Max 2 also come with camera remote function that lets users trigger photos or start and stop video recording by pressing the Digital Crown while connected to an iPhone or iPad. Studio-quality recording support allows podcasters, singers, and interviewers to capture audio with more natural vocal texture and higher recording quality.
Additional software features include Loud Sound Reduction to limit exposure to loud environmental noise, Personalized Volume that adapts playback levels based on listening habits, and Siri interactions that allow users to respond to prompts by nodding or shaking their head.
AirPods Max 2 start at $549 and will come in midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue. They will be available to order from March 25 through Apple’s online store, the Apple Store app, and the usual retail locations. Shipping will start early next month.
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