Apple Unveils AirPods Max 2: H2 Chip and New Features
▼ Summary
– Apple has unveiled the AirPods Max 2, featuring the H2 chip for key upgrades including more effective active noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and new audio features.
– New software features powered by the H2 chip include Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Live Translation, and Voice Isolation for enhanced user experience.
– The headphones maintain the same design and $549 price as the previous generation, with a USB-C port for charging and lossless audio support.
– Battery life remains at 20 hours with ANC, and the headphones include a Smart Case that puts them into an ultra-low-power state.
– AirPods Max 2 will be available for order starting March 25 and launch in early April, replacing the previous model which Apple is no longer selling.
Apple has officially introduced the second-generation AirPods Max, bringing a suite of significant enhancements centered on the new H2 chip. This powerful processor unlocks a host of advanced features, including superior active noise cancellation, refined audio quality, and intelligent capabilities like Adaptive Audio and Live Translation. While the iconic design remains familiar, the internal upgrades promise a substantially improved listening experience.
The core of the new features stems directly from the H2 chip. Adaptive Audio intelligently blends Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency mode, automatically adjusting levels based on your surroundings for an optimal soundscape. When you begin speaking, Conversation Awareness kicks in, lowering media volume and minimizing background noise so you can chat without removing the headphones. For calls, Voice Isolation employs computational audio to focus on your voice while blocking out environmental sounds. A particularly innovative addition is Live Translation, which leverages Apple Intelligence to facilitate real-time, in-person conversations across different languages.
Apple states the H2 chip enables up to 1.5 times more effective active noise cancellation compared to the first-generation model. The company also promises that Transparency mode now sounds more natural than ever. Audiophiles will appreciate the new high dynamic range amplifier, which delivers cleaner audio, while Spatial Audio content is said to sound better than ever. Wireless audio latency has also been reduced for a more responsive experience.
Battery life remains at up to 20 hours with ANC enabled, matching the previous generation. The headphones charge via a USB-C port, which also supports 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when using the included cable for a wired connection. For wireless use, Bluetooth has been upgraded to version 5.3. The available color palette continues with Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue finishes.
A handy new Camera Remote feature allows users to press the Digital Crown to capture photos or start and stop video recording directly from the headphones when using the Camera app on an iPhone or iPad. The AirPods Max 2 come with the familiar Smart Case, which places the headphones into an ultra-low-power state when stored, a crucial function since the design still omits a physical power button.
Pre-orders for the AirPods Max 2 begin on Wednesday, March 25, through Apple’s website and store app in the U.S. and over 30 other countries, with availability starting in early April. The price holds steady at $549. Apple has discontinued the original AirPods Max, making this new model the direct successor. This launch technically represents the third iteration of the product line, following the original Lightning-port model from 2020 and a subsequent update in 2024 that added USB-C and new colors.
(Source: Mac Rumors)
