Apple's AirPods Max 2 are here - what's new and what $549 gets you now
The long-awaited successor features a new amplifier for improved fidelity and intelligent features like Live Translation.
Apple has officially unveiled the AirPods Max 2, marking the first significant hardware revision for its high-end headphones since their 2020 debut. Priced at $549, the new model maintains the familiar aluminum and fabric design but is fundamentally upgraded internally with the H2 audio chip, previously seen in AirPods Pro. This chip powers a suite of intelligent features including Live Translation, Voice Isolation, Adaptive Audio, and Conversation Awareness. Crucially, Apple claims the H2 enables Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that is 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation.
Beyond smarter features, Apple emphasizes a major leap in audio fidelity driven by a new high-dynamic-range amplifier. This component is designed to deliver more realistic audio for mobile gaming, improved audio imaging for movies, and greater depth and dimension for music. The amplifier also enhances the Spatial Audio experience with better instrument localization and a more consistent bass response. Like the 2024 USB-C model, the AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when wired. A novel feature allows users to press the Digital Crown to take photos with a supported camera app on a connected iPhone or iPad, integrating the headphones more deeply into Apple's ecosystem.
- Powered by the new H2 chip enabling 1.5x more effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and features like Live Translation.
- Features a new high-dynamic-range amplifier for improved audio fidelity, Spatial Audio, and support for 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio via USB-C.
- Retains the $549 price and iconic design but adds a camera trigger function via the Digital Crown for connected iOS devices.
Why It Matters
Delivers a substantial audio and intelligence upgrade for professionals and audiophiles invested in the Apple ecosystem, six years after the original.