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Even years after they first launched, I've not seen a pair of premium headphones that oozes the same premium feel as Apple's AirPods Max. So it's not really a surprise that Apple's update to its premium over-ear headphones is mostly internal – the design is pretty much identical to the original.
The H2 chip brings smarter silence
While the exterior remains familiar, the transition to the H2 chip found in the latest AirPods Pro 3 is a significant leap forward.
This new processor enables Active Noise Cancellation that is up to 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation. For the frequent traveller, this means a much better job of silencing the low-frequency hum of jet engines or the screech of a Sydney train.
The H2 also introduces "Adaptive Audio," which intelligently blends Transparency mode and ANC based on your environment. If you're walking down a noisy street, the headphones will prioritise blocking out construction sounds while letting through enough ambient noise to keep you safe.
Professional tools for creators
Apple is clearly targeting the "Pro" crowd with the update, introducing 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio support when you're tethered via a USB-C cable.
This makes the AirPods Max 2 a legitimate tool for musicians and editors using apps like Logic Pro, especially as they are now the only headphones capable of mixing in Personalised Spatial Audio with head tracking over a wired connection.
Creators also gain a new "studio-quality" recording feature. The internal microphone array has been tuned to capture more natural vocal textures, potentially making these a viable backup for podcasters or journalists recording interviews on the go.
Additionally, the Digital Crown can now act as a remote shutter for your iPhone camera.
“With the incredible performance of H2, AirPods Max are upgraded with up to 1.5x more effective ANC for the ultimate all-day listening experience,” Eric Treski, Apple’s director of Audio Product Marketing, said.
Intelligence you can nod at
Integration with Apple Intelligence brings Live Translation to the AirPods Max, allowing for real-person communication across different languages, with the translated audio played directly into your ears.
Even Siri interactions have been simplified for those times you don't want to speak out loud in public. You can now respond to Siri announcements by simply nodding your head for "yes" or shaking it for "no", which lets you discreetly dismiss a call or confirm a text reply while on the bus.
Pricing and availability
The Apple AirPods Max 2 are available to order in Australia from Thursday, 26 March, with units arriving in stores and to customers early next month.
- RRP: $999
- Colours: Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue.
- Retailers: Apple Store (online and physical), and expected at major retailers like JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, and Amazon.com.au.
