Apple discreetly unveiled the AirPods Max 2, its latest over-ear headphones, on March 16. The new model is equipped with Apple’s H2 chip, enabling advanced functionalities like adaptive audio, conversation awareness, voice isolation, and live translation. Apple highlights that the device caters to content creators, offering features such as high-quality audio recording and remote camera controls.
Apple claims that the upgraded active noise cancellation system is 1.5 times more effective than its predecessor. The AirPods Max 2 supports 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected via a USB-C cable. The headphones come with adaptive capabilities, including automatic adjustment between noise cancellation and transparency based on the user’s surroundings, and a feature that reduces playback volume when the user speaks.
The live translation feature, utilizing Apple’s AI technology, aims to facilitate real-time multilingual communication. The AirPods Max 2 will be ready for purchase starting March 25 in various colors like midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue, with wider availability anticipated in early April. The initial price for the Apple AirPods Max 2 is set at $549.