Apple announced the new AirPods Max 2, featuring improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), enhanced sound quality, and new intelligent features powered by the H2 chip. The headphones introduce capabilities like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, and Live Translation to the over-ear lineup for the first time. They also support studio-quality audio recording and camera remote, making them useful for podcasters, musicians, and content creators.
AirPods Max 2 will be available to order starting March 25 in midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue, with availability beginning early next month. Apple says the new model delivers up to 1.5× more effective ANC and richer, more detailed sound, especially when combined with Personalized Spatial Audio for a more immersive listening experience.
With the H2 chip and new computational audio algorithms, AirPods Max 2 deliver up to 1.5× stronger Active Noise Cancellation, reducing more background noise such as airplane engines and train sounds for a more immersive listening experience. A new digital signal processing system also improves Transparency mode, making outside sounds more natural so users can stay aware of their surroundings.
AirPods Max 2 introduce a high dynamic range amplifier for cleaner sound while preserving the signature audio of the original model. Spatial Audio is improved with better instrument localization, more accurate bass, and more natural mids and highs.
The headphones support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected via the included USB-C cable, offering ultra-low latency for music, movies, and games. This also allows musicians to create and mix in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking using apps like Logic Pro. Reduced wireless latency further enhances gaming responsiveness and immersion on iOS, macOS, and iPadOS.
Powered by the H2 chip, AirPods Max 2 introduce several intelligent features that enhance convenience and usability. Adaptive Audio automatically adjusts ANC and Transparency based on surroundings, while Conversation Awareness lowers audio when users start speaking. Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence, helps people communicate across languages.
Additional features include Voice Isolation for clearer calls, camera remote control for photos and videos on Apple iPhone and Apple iPad, and studio-quality audio recording for creators. Users also get Loud Sound Reduction, Personalized Volume that adapts to listening habits, and new Siri interactions that let them respond to Siri by nodding or shaking their head.
Customers in the U.S. and over 30 other countries can order AirPods Max 2 starting March 25 through Apple’s website and the Apple Store app, with availability in stores and deliveries beginning early next month. The headphones start at $549 in the U.S.
