Apple’s AirPods Max headphones have long been positioned as the company’s most premium audio product. With the arrival of the AirPods Max 2, Apple has introduced several upgrades while retaining many of the core design elements that defined the original model. The newer version continues to target users who want high-end audio performance combined with deep integration within the Apple ecosystem.

While the two models share similarities in design and battery performance, the newer version introduces a more advanced chip, improved noise cancellation, and support for newer audio technologies. Here is a closer look at how the AirPods Max 2 compares with the first-generation AirPods Max.

Design and build

In terms of design, the AirPods Max 2 retains the overall look of the original AirPods Max. Both models feature large ear cups connected by a stainless-steel frame and a mesh headband that helps distribute weight evenly. The dimensions remain identical across the two generations.

Both headphones measure 7.37 inches in height, 6.64 inches in width, and 3.28 inches in depth. Each model weighs around 386.2 grams. Apple continues to include the Smart Case with both models, which places the headphones in a low-power state when stored.

The AirPods Max 2 is available in Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange colour options, while the first-generation model originally debuted in the same colour palette. Both versions include the Digital Crown for volume control and playback commands along with a dedicated button for switching listening modes.

Chipset and audio technology

One of the most significant differences between the two headphones lies in the internal chip. The first-generation AirPods Max is powered by Apple’s H1 chip in each ear cup. In contrast, the AirPods Max 2 runs on the newer H2 chip, which enables improved processing for audio features.

Both headphones include Adaptive EQ, personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and Apple-designed dynamic drivers. However, the newer model introduces enhanced active noise cancellation that Apple claims can deliver up to 1.5 times stronger noise reduction compared to the original version.

The AirPods Max 2 also supports Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, features designed to intelligently balance noise cancellation and ambient sound depending on the listening environment.

Noise control and microphones

Each version includes nine microphones in total, with eight dedicated to active noise cancellation and three microphones used for voice pickup. Transparency mode is available on both models, allowing external sound to pass through when needed.

However, the AirPods Max 2 expands on the listening experience by combining Adaptive Audio with Transparency mode, creating a more dynamic noise control system. Conversation Awareness is another feature exclusive to the newer model, automatically lowering media volume when the user begins speaking.

Connectivity and audio support

Both headphones support Bluetooth connectivity and integrate closely with Apple devices through features such as Automatic Switching and voice commands via Siri. The AirPods Max 2 uses Bluetooth 5.3, while the original AirPods Max supports Bluetooth 5.0.

Another major addition in the newer model is support for lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio through USB-C. This allows higher quality audio playback when connected with compatible devices.

The AirPods Max 2 also introduces Live Translation, a feature designed to assist with conversations across different languages.

Battery life and pricing

Battery life remains largely unchanged between the two models. Both the AirPods Max and AirPods Max 2 deliver up to 20 hours of listening time on a single charge with Active Noise Cancellation enabled.

They also support up to 20 hours of movie playback with spatial audio and noise cancellation active. Charging is handled through a USB-C connection, and storing the headphones in the Smart Case preserves battery life by placing them in an ultra-low power state.

In terms of pricing, the first-generation AirPods Max launched at $549 in the US and Rs 59,900 in India. The newer AirPods Max 2 also carry a $549 starting price in the US, while it costs Rs 67,900 in India.

Final thoughts

The AirPods Max 2 builds on the foundation of the original model rather than redesigning it entirely. The improvements mainly focus on the internal hardware and audio processing capabilities. Features such as the H2 chip, stronger noise cancellation, Adaptive Audio, and lossless audio support represent the most notable upgrades.

For existing AirPods Max users, the decision to upgrade may depend on whether these newer audio features and connectivity improvements are important. For new buyers entering Apple’s premium headphone segment, the AirPods Max 2 represents the more advanced option while maintaining the familiar design and comfort of the original model.

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The post AirPods Max 2 vs AirPods Max: What has changed in Apple’s flagship headphones appeared first on Gizmochina.

From a new iPhone to a budget-friendly MacBook, Apple announced a series of new products this week.

Apple today officially unveiled the second-generation Apple AirPods Max 2. The new over-the-ear headphone brings upgrades to active noise cancellation, sound quality, and several new smart features powered by the company’s H2 chip.

At first glance, the new model looks quite familiar. Its design remains largely unchanged from the original AirPods Max, but most of its improvements are inside. 

Apple AirPods Max 2 Specifications

It now runs an H2 chip, enabling features like adaptive audio, conversation awareness, and voice highlighting. We have seen these features in newer AirPods, and they are now making their way to the company’s flagship headphones, too.

According to Apple, active noise cancellation on AirPods Max 2 is now 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation. The company says the improvement comes from a combination of the H2 chip and updated computational audio algorithms. 

Transparency mode is also getting an update. Apple says the system uses new digital signal processing tuned for the H2 chip and the headphone’s microphone array, which should make outside sounds feel more natural when users want to stay aware of their surroundings.

AirPods Max 2 also introduces a new high dynamic range amplifier designed to produce clearer audio while maintaining the sound profile the original model is known for. The spatial audio now gives more accurate instrument placement and improved balance across lows, mids, and highs.

A few extras

The headphones support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable. Apple says creators can use the headphones in professional workflows inside apps like Logic Pro, including music production and track mixing with head-tracking spatial audio.

The AirPods Max 2 has a Game Mode that the company claims can deliver a more responsive audio experience while gaming. 

AirPods Max 2 also introduces a few less typical features for headphones. Users can remotely control a camera by pressing the digital crown while the Camera app is open on an iPhone or iPad. Apple is also adding studio-quality audio recording, which the company says could be useful for interviews, podcasts, or vocal recordings.

Other additions include personalized volume that adjusts listening levels over time based on user preferences, as well as a new Siri interaction method that allows users to nod or shake their head to respond to notifications from Siri.

On the environmental side, Apple says the headphones include several recycled materials. Magnets are made with 100 percent recycled rare earth elements, ear pads use fully recycled polyester, and Apple-designed circuit boards include recycled gold plating and solder. Packaging is also entirely fiber-based.

Price and Availability

AirPods Max 2 will be available in Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue. Preorders begin March 25 at $549. The headphones will ship with the Smart Case included with the previous generation.

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The post Apple AirPods Max 2 are official with the H2 chip and improved active noise cancellation appeared first on Gizmochina.

The successor to its premium headphones cost $549 and are launching with enhanced active noise cancellation, the H2 chip, live translation, better sound quality, and more.