AirPods Max 2 Price, Colors, and Availability

Apple has unveiled the AirPods Max 2, the successor to its premium over-ear headphones first introduced in 2020.

The new model is priced at $549 and will be available for preorder starting March 25. Shipping begins early next month, with availability in more than 30 countries and regions.

Color options include:

  • Midnight
  • Starlight
  • Orange
  • Purple
  • Blue

The refreshed lineup keeps the premium positioning intact while introducing meaningful internal upgrades.

H2 Chip Powering Advanced Audio Performance

Apple’s Audio-Specific H2 Chip

At the core of the AirPods Max 2 is Apple’s H2 chip, designed specifically for audio processing. This chip enables improvements across active noise cancellation, transparency mode, spatial audio, and voice features.

The H2 chip also powers new computational audio capabilities, enhancing clarity and responsiveness in real time.

24-Bit, 48 kHz Lossless Audio Support

When connected via the included USB-C cable, the AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio. This provides higher-fidelity playback for users seeking detailed and accurate sound reproduction.

Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation and Adaptive Audio

1.5x More Effective Active Noise Cancellation

Apple states that the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on AirPods Max 2 is up to 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation. This improvement aims to reduce external noise more efficiently, particularly in loud environments.

Adaptive Audio for Dynamic Environment Adjustment

The Adaptive Audio feature automatically adjusts the balance between ANC and Transparency mode based on surroundings. This dynamic adjustment is designed to optimize the listening experience without requiring manual changes.

Improved Transparency Mode with Advanced DSP

Transparency mode now uses a new digital signal-processing algorithm optimized for the H2 chip and the AirPods Max microphone array. Apple says this results in a more natural experience, allowing users to remain aware of conversations and environmental sounds while listening to audio.

Live Translation and Voice Isolation Capabilities

Built-In Live Translation for In-Person Communication

AirPods Max 2 introduce Live Translation, enabling users to communicate across languages during in-person conversations. This feature expands the headphones’ utility beyond entertainment into real-time communication.

Voice Isolation with Computational Audio

The new Voice Isolation feature uses advanced computational audio to prioritize the user’s voice during calls while blocking ambient noise. This is designed to improve call clarity in noisy environments.

High-Dynamic-Range Amplifier and Spatial Audio Enhancements

Cleaner Audio with High-Dynamic-Range Amplifier

Apple has integrated a new high-dynamic-range amplifier to deliver cleaner sound. The upgrade focuses on reducing distortion while maintaining clarity across varying volume levels.

Improved Spatial Audio Performance

Spatial Audio has been refined with:

  • Improved localization of instruments
  • Better bass response
  • More natural mids and highs

These enhancements aim to create a more immersive and balanced listening experience.

Loud Sound Reduction for Hearing Protection

The AirPods Max 2 include a Loud Sound Reduction feature that helps protect users from loud environmental noise while preserving the original sound signature of their audio content.

This function is designed to reduce harsh external sounds without compromising listening quality.

Microphone Upgrades for Creators and Professionals

Apple states that the microphone system allows interviewers, podcasters, singers, and other creators to capture higher-quality audio with more natural vocal texture.

Combined with voice isolation and computational audio processing, the microphones are positioned as suitable tools for professional-grade content capture.

Camera Remote Functionality with Digital Crown

The AirPods Max 2 support Camera Remote, enabling users to control the iPhone or iPad camera remotely.

By pressing the Digital Crown, users can:

  • Take photos
  • Start video recording
  • Stop video recording

This works within the Camera app and compatible third-party camera apps on iPhone and iPad.