Apple’s AirPods Max 2 over-ear headphones offer improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and sound quality, and add intelligent features.
Powered by H2, features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation, and Live Translation come to AirPods Max for the first time. For content creators, including podcasters and musicians, there are also useful features like studio-quality audio recording and camera remote.
AirPods Max 2 deliver ANC that’s up to 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation. This reduces even more noise, like airplane engines or commuter trains. With a new digital signal processing algorithm optimized for H2 and the microphone array on AirPods Max, Transparency sounds even more natural, says Apple.
The new high dynamic range amplifier provides cleaner audio, Apple says, while maintaining the same sound signature of AirPods Max. Spatial Audio content features improved localization of instruments, more accurate and consistent bass response, and more natural-sounding mids and highs.
There’s also support for 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected with the included USB-C cable. Using the USB-C cable, musicians can both create and mix in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking. Gamers, meanwhile, will appreciate the reduced wireless audio latency. When playing in Game Mode and listening via these ‘phones, iOS, macOS, and iPadOS games will feel more responsive and immersive, says Apple.
There are plenty of other audio features, like Loud Sound Reduction that helps prevent exposure to loud environmental noise while preserving the sound signature of what you’re listening to, and Personalized Volume that automatically fine-tunes the listening experience based on your preferences over time.
With camera remote, you can capture content at a distance by pressing the Digital Crown to take a photo and start or stop video recording while using the Camera app or compatible third-party camera apps on iPhone or iPad.
Siri Interactions allow you to privately respond to Siri announcements by simply nodding your head yes or gently shaking your head no.
The Apple AirPods Max 2 are available to order starting Wednesday, March 25, 2026 and will arrive to customers and in Apple Store locations, beginning early next month. They start at $799 in Canada.