Apple introduces the second-generation AirPods Max, priced at $549, over five years following their initial launch
Apple on Monday introduced the second generation of its premium AirPods Max over-ear headphones, priced at $549, more than five years following the launch of the first version.
The update signifies Apple’s first significant overhaul of the over-ear headphones since their launch in 2020, as the company introduces new features and enhanced noise cancellation to strengthen its position in the premium headphones market.
Japan’s Sony Group, along with Bose and Sennheiser, currently dominate the segment.
Equipped with Apple’s proprietary H2 chip that powers the latest AirPods lineup, the new headphones will be available for order starting March 25 in over 30 countries, with retail availability set to begin early next month, according to the company.
The AirPods Max 2 come with enhancements such as superior active noise cancellation, an upgraded microphone system, and a variety of new features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Live Translation.
The live translation feature, which debuted with the AirPods Pro 3 in September, allows users to translate in-person conversations between different languages using Apple Intelligence, the company’s artificial intelligence platform.
According to Apple, AirPods Max 2 also supports high-resolution lossless audio when connected via USB-C, catering to music creators and professional users who demand higher fidelity audio.
