AirPods Max 2 - What's New and Is It Worth Upgrading?

Apple announced AirPods Max 2 today, and it's a more significant update than it might first appear. The design is the same iconic over-ear headphone you already know, but what's changed underneath is quite substantial.

What's actually new?

The big change is the chip. AirPods Max 2 are now powered by H2, the same chip that's been inside AirPods Pro 2 since 2022. That might not sound exciting, but it's the reason this update matters.

The previous AirPods Max were running older chip technology, which meant they missed out on a whole generation of features that AirPods Pro 2 users have been enjoying for a couple of years. With H2 now inside, that gap closes.

The last time AirPods Max were updated, Apple added USB-C. That was it. A welcome change, but not a reason to upgrade. This time it's a different story.

Here's what you get that wasn't possible before:

Adaptive Audio - rather than manually switching between noise cancellation and Transparency mode, AirPods Max 2 do it automatically, adjusting to your environment as it changes.

Conversation Awareness - when you start speaking to someone, the headphones automatically lower the volume and reduce background noise so you can hear the conversation clearly. It works really well in practice.

Voice Isolation - on calls, H2 focuses on your voice and cuts out ambient noise, so the person on the other end hears you clearly even somewhere busy.

Live Translation - powered by Apple Intelligence, this translates conversations in real time directly through your headphones. Genuinely useful if you travel.

Siri head gestures - nod yes or shake your head no to respond to Siri announcements without saying a word or reaching for your phone.

The noise cancellation is better too. Apple says ANC is up to 1.5x more effective than the previous generation, which was already very good. If you use them on trains or planes, you will notice the difference.

What about sound quality?

A new high dynamic range amplifier means cleaner audio, and Spatial Audio sounds better with improved instrument positioning and more accurate bass. For wired listening, AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit lossless audio over USB-C, which is a nice bonus for anyone serious about audio quality.

What's the same?

The design is unchanged, which is either a strength or a weakness depending on how you look at it. The headband, ear cushions, Digital Crown - all identical to the original. If you loved the look and feel of the first AirPods Max, that's good news. If you were hoping for something lighter or foldable, you will be disappointed.

Should you upgrade?

If you have the original AirPods Max, the case for upgrading is pretty compelling. Those headphones never got Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, or any of the H2 features, and they never will. If you use your headphones heavily day to day, that's quite a lot to miss out on.

If you're on AirPods Pro 2, there's much less reason to switch. You already have the H2 features. The Max will sound better and offer more immersive Spatial Audio, but whether that's worth £499 depends entirely on how much you value over-ear headphones.

If you're coming from an older pair of headphones or buying for the first time, £499 is a lot. But for what you get, they're genuinely excellent.

Availability

AirPods Max 2 are available to order from 25 March in Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue, starting at £499.

Not sure if they're right for you? Just get in touch and I'll give you an honest answer.