Next Generation AirPods Max 2: What We Know and When They'll Arrive
Next Generation AirPods Max 2: What We Know and When They'll Arrive
Curious about the AirPods Max 2? Get the latest scoop on design upgrades, sound improvements, and the long wait ahead for Apple’s next-gen headphones.
It’s hard to believe, but almost five years have passed since Apple launched the original AirPods Max back in December 2020. Since then, the only real changes have been a few new colors and swapping the Lightning port for USB-C in early 2024. As someone who’s owned the AirPods Max, I can tell you—they’re fantastic headphones but definitely craving an upgrade. So, where’s the next iteration?
According to the ever-reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who dropped a bombshell on Twitter in May 2025, the AirPods Max 2 won’t enter production until 2027. Yep, it looks like die-hard fans will have to wait a good while longer.
While we twiddle our thumbs waiting, let’s dive into everything we know and speculate about the next generation of Apple’s premium over-ear headphones.
What to Expect from AirPods Max 2: A Quick Rundown
- A new, lighter design for better comfort
- Enhanced noise cancellation for those blissful quiet moments
- The much-anticipated H2 or even H3 chip powering smarter features
- Adaptive audio and other innovations borrowed from AirPods Pro line
- No launch expected before late 2026 or even 2027
AirPods Max 2: Design Evolution or Revolution?
Over the years, the AirPods Max design has sparked a mix of admiration and criticism. The aluminum build screams premium but also weighs in at a hefty 384 grams, which some find cumbersome for long listening sessions.
Many users, myself included, have wished for a lighter set, and competitors like Bose, Sony, and Beats have already set the bar with plastic-bodied models that weigh significantly less. Take the Beats Studio Pro, for example—they clock in at just 260 grams.
Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that Apple is indeed working on a “lighter” version slated for 2027, though specifics remain under wraps. It’s unlikely Apple will ditch the sleek aluminum entirely since it’s become part of the AirPods Max identity.
Another sore spot has been the Smart Case. Let’s be honest—the original case feels underwhelming in protection and style. Our reviews have called it “poorly thought out and flimsy.” Apple snagged a patent in 2022 hinting at a fully enclosed redesign, so fingers crossed for a sturdier, more elegant case on the next model.
Sound Upgrades: What’s Missing and What’s Coming
Back in September 2024, rumor guru Mark Gurman suggested that AirPods Max 2 would deliver better noise cancellation and adaptive audio features. Sadly, the 2024 update only added USB-C connectivity, leaving us hungry for those anticipated sound upgrades.
Right now, AirPods Max can stream lossless audio via USB-C thanks to a March 2025 firmware update, but wireless lossless audio? That’s still a no-go. Meanwhile, competitors like Sony and Sennheiser have offered wireless lossless and high-resolution audio for a while now.
The existing AirPods Max miss out on several smart features AirPods Pro 2 users enjoy, like adaptive audio, precise EQ control, conversation awareness, voice isolation, spatial audio, live translation, water resistance, and Bluetooth 5.3 support.
The good news? The next AirPods Max 2 could finally get Apple’s new H2 or even H3 chip, unlocking active noise cancellation and adaptive transparency features similar to the Pro line. That would be a game-changer for fans craving the full Apple audio ecosystem experience.
Features to Watch For in AirPods Max 2
- Improved dust, sweat, and water resistance to boost durability
- Inclusion of the U2 chip found in AirPods Pro 3 for precise Find My tracking
- Bluetooth upgrade from 5.0 to 5.3, enabling LE Audio for better sound quality and energy efficiency
- Enhanced stereo and multichannel audio streaming with ultra-low latency
- Better device switching and extended wireless range
When Will AirPods Max 2 Arrive?
In September 2024, Apple’s only change was swapping Lightning for USB-C and adding some fresh colors. Beyond that, silence.
All signs point to a wait stretching into late 2026 or even 2027 before the AirPods Max receive a true makeover. Fans will have to exercise patience, but the anticipation only makes the next-gen reveal sweeter.
The Price Tag: Will AirPods Max 2 Cost More?
Currently, AirPods Max retail for about $499 (roughly £430), making them the priciest in Apple’s lineup and more than double the AirPods Pro price.
They also sit at a premium compared to some rivals:
- Beats Studio Pro: $350
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra: $450
- Bowers & Wilkins Px8: $530
No rumors about AirPods Max 2 pricing have surfaced yet, but don’t expect Apple to drop the cost significantly. Their ecosystem’s seamless pairing, intuitive device control, and tight integration remain a huge selling point that justifies the higher price for many.
For now, savvy shoppers can often find discounts on the original AirPods Max, as Apple’s recommended retail price rarely sticks in the wild.
We expect Apple to address current shortcomings in the AirPods Max 2 with the H2 or H3 chip, enabling features like active noise cancellation and adaptive transparency. – Industry Analyst
Wrapping It Up: Should You Hold Out or Jump In Now?
The AirPods Max are a beautiful piece of audio engineering, but their weight, lack of some modern features, and high price have left fans eager for an update. With Apple reportedly targeting 2027 for the next version, it’s clear they’re taking their time to perfect the experience.
So, if you’re a die-hard Apple audio fan, you might want to wait for the Max 2’s lighter design, enhanced noise cancellation, and smarter chip. But if you crave top-tier sound now and don’t mind a bit of heft, the current model (especially on sale) still delivers a stellar experience.
What features are you most hoping to see in AirPods Max 2? Drop your thoughts and wishlist below!
FAQ
- How much lighter will the AirPods Max 2 be?
Details are scarce, but Apple aims to trim weight for better comfort, possibly closer to competitor levels around 260 grams. - Will AirPods Max 2 support wireless lossless audio?
It’s expected, especially with the new H2 or H3 chip and Bluetooth 5.3, enabling high-quality wireless streaming. - Is a new Smart Case coming with better protection?
Rumors and patent filings hint at a fully enclosed case redesign, but nothing confirmed yet. - Will the AirPods Max 2 be waterproof?
Improved water and dust resistance are likely, addressing current gaps in durability. - When exactly will the AirPods Max 2 launch?
Production is slated for 2027, with no official release date announced yet.
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