Apple has introduced the second generation of its premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max 2. The new model brings several upgrades over the original AirPods Max that debuted in 2020, including Apple’s H2 chip, improved noise cancellation, and a range of new software features.
The biggest change in the new model is the addition of the H2 chip, which powers several improvements in audio processing and smart features.
Apple says the upgraded Active Noise Cancellation can now block up to 1.5 times more background noise compared to the previous generation. This should help reduce sounds in environments like flights, public transport, and busy streets.
The company has also added a high dynamic range amplifier designed to deliver cleaner sound output. Transparency mode has also been refined with improved signal processing so users can hear surrounding sounds more naturally when the mode is enabled.
AirPods Max 2 also supports 24 bit 48 kHz lossless audio when connected using the included USB C cable. Apple says this wired connection can be useful for musicians and content creators who want to work with Personalized Spatial Audio and head tracking while mixing or editing audio.
Another improvement is reduced wireless latency, which should make audio more responsive when using Game Mode on supported Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
The H2 chip also enables several software driven features.
One of them is Adaptive Audio, which automatically balances noise cancellation and transparency depending on the environment around the user. Another feature called Conversation Awareness can detect when the user starts speaking and automatically lowers the media volume.
The headphones also include Voice Isolation for clearer calls by prioritizing the user’s voice and reducing background noise. Apple has also added a Live Translation feature powered by its Apple Intelligence platform. This feature helps users translate real time conversations between different languages.
Users can also interact with Siri without speaking by nodding their head to say yes or shaking their head to say no.
AirPods Max 2 also includes several tools aimed at content creators. Users can press the Digital Crown on the headphones to remotely capture photos or control video recording from a connected Apple device.
Apple has also improved the microphone system for clearer audio recording, which could be useful for podcasters and creators who rely on voice recordings.
For safety and comfort, the headphones include Loud Sound Reduction to limit exposure to harsh environmental noises. Another feature called Personalized Volume learns a user’s listening habits and adjusts volume levels automatically over time.
The new AirPods Max 2 is priced at Rs. 67,900 in India, while the US price is set at $549.
Pre-orders will start on March 25, and the headphones will begin reaching customers and Apple retail stores early next month.
