Apple officially announces the new generation of over-ear Bluetooth headphones, Apple AirPods Max 2. The new product continues the classic over-ear design of AirPods Max and is equipped with the H2 chip, delivering enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), higher-quality sound, and multiple smart features including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, and Live Translation.
Some AirPods Max 2 units in the United States will be available for pre-order starting March 25, with shipments beginning next month. The release date in Taiwan is still to be announced. The new models come in five colors: Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue. The US price is $549, and the Taiwan price is NT$17,990.
AirPods Max 2 Colors with H2 Chip, Noise Cancellation Up to 1.5 Times Better
The biggest hardware upgrade in AirPods Max 2 comes from the H2 chip. Apple states that, combined with new algorithms, the active noise cancellation of the new generation headphones can be up to 1.5 times more effective than the previous model. Even in high-noise environments like airplanes, trains, or coffee shops, the headphones can more effectively eliminate background sounds, allowing users to focus on music, calls, or work.
At the same time, AirPods Max 2 also improves the naturalness of Transparency Mode. Through new digital signal processing algorithms, the headphones can more naturally preserve environmental sounds, enabling users to maintain an immersive listening experience while remaining aware of their surroundings.
AirPods Max 2 Sound Quality Boost! Supports 24-bit Lossless Audio
In terms of sound quality, AirPods Max 2 introduces a high-dynamic-range amplifier, providing cleaner and more detailed audio performance. Apple points out that the new generation headphones show significant improvements across three frequency ranges: deeper and more stable bass, more natural mid-range vocals, and brighter, more delicate treble.
Additionally, when using a USB-C cable, AirPods Max 2 supports 24-bit / 48kHz lossless audio and ultra-low latency sound. This feature allows music creators to directly use AirPods Max in music production software like Logic Pro for creation, recording, and mixing, even with personalized spatial audio and head tracking.
AirPods Max 2 Offers 20 Hours of Battery Life and Fully Switches to USB-C
Regarding battery life, AirPods Max 2 can provide up to 20 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation and spatial audio enabled. The headphones also switch to USB-C charging, compatible with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other devices using the same cable. The new models are available in Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue.
AirPods Max 2 Midnight Color
AirPods Max 2 Starlight Color
AirPods Max 2 Blue
AirPods Max 2 Purple
AirPods Max 2 Orange
New Smart Features in AirPods Max 2: Live Translation and Conversation Awareness
The H2 chip also enables AirPods Max 2 to support multiple AI-driven smart features:
Adaptive Audio
Automatically adjusts the ratio of noise cancellation and transparency modes based on the environment for optimal listening experience.
Conversation Awareness
When the user starts speaking with someone nearby, the system automatically lowers music volume and enhances human voice.
Live Translation
Powered by Apple Intelligence, it provides real-time translation of the other person’s speech during cross-language conversations.
Voice Isolation
Uses advanced audio processing to prioritize human voice during calls and reduce ambient noise.
Additionally, AirPods Max 2 introduces a camera remote control feature. Users can remotely take photos or start recording via the Digital Crown button, suitable for creators or selfie enthusiasts.
Designed for Creators and Podcasters: Recording Features
Apple also emphasizes the application of AirPods Max 2 for creators. The headphones support studio-grade audio recording, allowing podcasters, singers, or content creators to capture more natural and detailed vocals. The low-latency wireless audio also enhances gaming experiences. In Game Mode, sound responses in iOS, macOS, and iPadOS games are more immediate.
This article, Apple AirPods Max 2 in five colors, Taiwan pricing, and new features like real-time translation and creative use, first appeared on ABMedia.