Apple's airpods max 2 arrive: h2 chip, usb-c, and improved noise cancellation
After a nearly two-year hiatus since their 2020 debut, Apple has officially unveiled the AirPods Max 2, bringing significant upgrades to the over-ear headphones. The refreshed model boasts a new H2 chip, USB-C charging, and enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), addressing long-standing criticisms of the original.
Apple's latest headphones finally catch up with the competition.
The most immediate change is under the hood. The original AirPods Max relied on an outdated H1 chip. The new H2 chip brings performance in line with current high-end earbuds, a necessary move to compete with offerings from Sony and Bose.
The move to a USB-C port is a welcome one. Say goodbye to carrying around a separate Lightning cable. This also enables lossless audio playback, a detail that will resonate with audiophiles and mobile gamers seeking a lag-free experience.
Apple claims the updated ANC blocks twice as much background noise as the previous generation, a substantial improvement. Sound quality has also been refined, promising a cleaner profile with more accurate bass and treble. And while the weight remains the same at 13.6 ounces, the addition of Adaptive Audio, which adjusts volume and noise cancellation based on your surroundings, represents a significant step forward.
The price remains at $549, a figure that may still give some pause. Pre-orders begin March 25th, with shipping slated for early April. Apple is offering the new headphones in midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue.
The inclusion of a USB-C cable in the box is a smart move, delivering true high-fidelity, lossless sound without requiring additional purchases. For those invested in the Apple ecosystem and prioritizing audio quality, this upgrade is compelling. However, the weight – a consistent concern with the original model – remains a factor for extended listening sessions. The H2 chip’s performance in truly noisy environments will be the ultimate test.
The AirPods Max 2 represent a necessary evolution for a product that had become increasingly outdated in a rapidly advancing audio landscape. Apple has addressed many of the criticisms leveled at its first iteration, but whether the improvements justify the price will ultimately determine its success.