Apple recently surprised the market by launching the AirPods Max 2, five years after the first generation. While the external appearance remains unchanged, notable changes are visible under the hood thanks to the integration of the H2 chip. Here are the notable differences to know.
It seemed almost unbelievable, but Apple finally decided to launch a new high-end headphone. After a month marked by the announcement of the iPhone 17, the iPad Air M4, and the surprising MacBook Neo, Cupertino’s firm decided to create the surprise by launching the AirPods Max 2. The Apple Bluetooth flagship headset certainly made its mark in 2024 with the release of a USB-C version, but the change in connectivity was the only novelty of that version.
Five years after the AirPods Max, the changes are not immediately obvious as the design remains similar. However, there are still significant differences and new features to be aware of.
1. Integration of the H2 Chip The technological stagnation of the old model was largely due to the use of the H1 chip. By finally switching to the H2 chip, the AirPods Max 2 catches up with the in-ear headphones of the Californian giant. This new silicon represents the true engine of this update by multiplying the computing power dedicated to signal processing. This architecture allows real-time analysis of the sound environment with surgical precision to feed the device’s new artificial intelligence algorithms.
2. More Aggressive Noise Reduction The most immediate benefit of this new processor is felt in acoustic isolation. Apple promises active noise reduction that is one and a half times more effective compared to the first generation. The algorithms now aggressively target continuous and heavy bass frequencies produced by airplane engines or subway trains. The Transparency mode also benefits from a complete redesign of the digital signal processing to offer a much more natural sound and eliminate the feeling of confinement often attributed to closed-back headphones.
3. Arrival of Adaptive Audio and Smart Features The old model lacked modern software functions. This void is now filled with the introduction of adaptive audio that dynamically merges isolation and transparency according to your environment variations. The headset also integrates conversation detection to automatically lower the music volume when you speak. Professionals on the go will appreciate the new live translation feature that turns the device into a simultaneous interpreter during face-to-face exchanges.
4. Lossless Playback and Improved Sound Audiophiles can finally rejoice as the wired connection via the provided USB-C cable unlocks lossless playback at 24-bit and 48 kHz. This advancement alone justifies the interest of musicians and content creators in this product. On the purely hardware side, the transducers remain the same but are accompanied by a brand-new high dynamic range amplifier. This component refines the soundstage by offering tighter bass and significantly more precise instrumental separation when listening to high-definition files.
5. New Uses for the Digital Crown The physical interaction with the headset subtly evolves without changing the existing hardware. The iconic tactile wheel gains a new functionality by becoming a remote trigger for the camera of your smartphone or tablet. With a simple press, you can capture group photos or start a video recording without having to touch your screen. Interactions with the voice assistant also take a step further with the recognition of head movements to silently accept or reject a call.
These elements that remain unchanged: Despite some notable innovations, the manufacturer has shown a perplexing conservatism. The aluminum chassis still weighs 386 grams, a significant weight that can cause fatigue during long listening sessions. Even though its predecessor had built a certain reputation for comfort, the AirPods Max 2 is much heavier than direct competitors such as the Sony WH-1000XM6 (254 g), the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 (252 g), or the Sennheiser Momentum 4 (293 g).
Moreover, the autonomy stubbornly remains at 20 hours of continuous listening with noise reduction activated, a figure that fades compared to industry leaders. Finally, the minimalist protective case of the first generation returns without any modifications, still leaving the fabric headband dangerously exposed during your travels.
