AirPods Max 2: rumours, release date, price

The first generation of AirPods Max were released on December 2020. It marked Apple's entry into the premium over-ear headphone market. Since then they have released second generations of the AirPods Pro and third generations of the AirPods. It is expected that the AirPods Max will be the next model to receive a refresh. In this article we will look at the rumours, potential release date and more.

What is the Apple AirPods Max 2 release date?

Apple has established a trend of updating their headphone and earphone lineup every 3 years. For example, the 1st generation of AirPods were initially released in 2016, the 2nd generation in 2019 and the 3rd generation in 2021. If the AirPods Max follow this trend we could see the 2nd generation of AirPods Max released in 2023. However, according to Ming-Chi Kuo, a reliable Apple analyst and leaker, he expects the AirPods Max 2 to be released in mid-2024 or even early 2025 after possible manufacturing delays. 

What features to expect with the AirPods Max 2?

Here is a list of features that we could see with the AirPods Max 2. Please note that these are expectations and potential features based on available information and should be treated as speculative until official announcements are made by Apple.

• Design: The AirPods Max 2 are anticipated to have a similar premium build with distinctive materials and vibrant colour options.
• Fully Enclosed Smart Case: It is likely that the AirPods Max 2 will come with an improved, fully enclosed case for better protection.
• USB-C Charging: Apple is expected to transition from Lightning to USB-C charging, making the AirPods Max 2 more compatible with Android devices.
• Touch Controls: The AirPods Max 2 may replace the Digital Crown with touch controls that can interpret gestures based on the orientation of the headphones.
• Software Features: Similar to the AirPods Max, the AirPods Max 2 are expected to offer Apple-exclusive features such as one-step pairing, auto-switching between Apple devices, and advanced location services through Find My app.

• H2 Chips: The AirPods Max 2 will likely feature H2 chips, replacing the H1 chips for improved noise cancellation and processing power.
• Adaptive EQ and Spatial Audio: The AirPods Max 2 will likely include Adaptive EQ, personalised Apple Spatial Audio, and head tracking for an optimised listening experience.
• Advanced Features: The AirPods Max 2 may support features like Adaptive Audio, Conversational Awareness, and Personalised Volume, which provide environmental sound processing, automatic volume adjustment, and improved voice enhancement.
• Enhanced Noise Canceling: The AirPods Max 2 are expected to offer better noise cancellation, potentially incorporating technologies to reduce audio feedback and improve the user experience.
• Audio Quality: While the frequency response may not change significantly, the AirPods Max 2 might support higher data rates for 24-bit or lossless Bluetooth audio, addressing Bluetooth's limitations and potentially offering its own 24-bit Bluetooth audio solution.

How much will the AirPods Max 2 cost?

The AirPods Max 2 are expected to be priced at around $549, this was the original retail price for the AirPods Max. It is possible that due to inflation that this price increases, although Apple have typically been able to keep their prices similar between generations.