Apple today officially unveiled the AirPods Max 2, the next generation of its premium over-ear headphones. The updated model introduces the powerful H2 chip, bringing significant improvements to active noise cancellation (ANC), sound fidelity, and intelligent software features.
The new AirPods Max 2 will be available in five new finishes: Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue, and are priced at ₱34,990 for the Philippine market.
The integration of the H2 chip allows for advanced computational audio that was previously unavailable on the original model. According to Apple, the AirPods Max 2 deliver ANC that is up to 1.5x more effective, specifically targeting persistent background sounds like airplane engines and commuter trains.
“The sound quality is remarkably clean, rich, and acoustically detailed,” said Eric Treski, Apple’s director of Audio Product Marketing. “When combined with capabilities like Personalized Spatial Audio, AirPods Max 2 deliver a profoundly immersive experience.”
For the first time, the AirPods Max support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected via the included USB-C cable. This update aims to bridge the gap for professional music creators using Logic Pro, allowing for ultra-low latency mixing with head tracking.
New hardware and software features include:
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Studio-Quality Recording: Improved microphone processing for higher-quality vocal textures in podcasts and interviews.
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Camera Remote: Users can now trigger photos or start/stop video recording on a paired iPhone or iPad by pressing the Digital Crown.
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Game Mode Support: Reduced wireless latency for more responsive audio during intensive gaming sessions on iOS, macOS, and iPadOS.
Intelligent Software Features
The AirPods Max 2 inherit several “smart” features from the AirPods Pro line, powered by Apple Intelligence:
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Adaptive Audio: Automatically blends Transparency mode and ANC based on the user’s environment.
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Conversation Awareness: Lowers media volume and reduces background noise the moment a user begins speaking.
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Live Translation: Facilitates real-time, cross-language communication.
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Siri Interactions: Users can respond to Siri announcements by simply nodding or shaking their head.
In line with the “Apple 2030” initiative, the headphones feature 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnets and 100% recycled polyester in the ear cushions. The device also utilizes recycled gold plating and tin solder in its circuit boards.
The AirPods Max 2 are coming soon to customers in the Philippines with a starting retail price of ₱34,990.
