AirPods Max 2 vs AirPods Max: What’s different

Apple has refreshed its premium over-ear headphones after several years with the launch of the AirPods Max 2. While the new model looks almost identical to the original AirPods Max, several internal changes bring new audio features and improvements.

Here is a closer look at what has actually changed between the two generations.

H2 chip replaces the older H1 chip

The most important change in AirPods Max 2 is the new H2 chip. The original AirPods Max released in 2020 relied on Apple’s H1 chip for audio processing, spatial audio and noise cancellation.

With the H2 chip, the new model delivers faster audio processing and enables several features that were previously unavailable on the over-ear AirPods lineup. The upgraded chip also improves microphone processing, which helps provide clearer voice calls and better responsiveness when switching between audio modes.

The H2 chip also enables users to trigger the voice assistant by saying “Siri” instead of “Hey Siri”.

Improved noise cancellation and transparency mode

Active Noise Cancellation has also received a noticeable upgrade. Apple says the new headphones can reduce ambient noise up to 1.5 times more effectively compared to the previous generation.

This means background sounds such as aircraft noise, traffic, or office chatter should be reduced more efficiently during listening sessions.

Transparency mode has also been refined. The new processing algorithm makes outside sounds feel more natural when the feature is enabled, which can be useful while walking outdoors or speaking with someone nearby.

New intelligent audio features

Because of the H2 chip, AirPods Max 2 over-ear-headphones now support several smart audio features that were previously limited to newer AirPods models.

These include Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts the balance between noise cancellation and environmental sound depending on the surroundings. Conversation Awareness can detect when the user starts speaking and temporarily reduce music volume.

Apple has also introduced Voice Isolation to reduce background noise during calls. Another addition is Live Translation, which allows conversations to be translated in real time when the headphones are connected to compatible Apple devices.

Other new features include Personalized Volume, Loud Sound Reduction for hearing protection, head gesture controls for interacting with Siri, and a Camera Remote function that allows users to trigger photos or videos from the headphones.

Audio improvements and wired lossless support

AirPods Max 2 also include a new high dynamic range amplifier designed to deliver cleaner sound output. Apple says the changes improve instrument separation, bass consistency, and overall audio balance.

When connected through USB-C, the headphones support 24-bit, 48kHz lossless audio playback. This may be useful for listeners who want higher-quality wired playback or for creators recording audio.

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The new model also upgrades Bluetooth connectivity from version 5.0 to Bluetooth 5.3, which helps reduce wireless latency.

Design and battery life remain unchanged

Despite the internal changes, the overall design remains the same. Both generations feature aluminium ear cups, a stainless-steel frame, mesh headband and the Digital Crown control system.

Battery life is also unchanged. AirPods Max 2 still deliver up to 20 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation or Transparency mode enabled.

Price difference

The original AirPods Max was priced at Rs 59,900 and was made available in colours like Space Gray, Silver, Sky Blue, Green, and Pink. In 2024, the brand made it available newer shades, such as Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange.

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The AirPods Max 2 has arrived at a higher price of Rs 67,900. It comes in shades like Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange.

AirPods Max 2 vs AirPods Max: What's different

AirPods Max 2 are not a visual redesign but a performance upgrade. The addition of the H2 chip brings stronger noise cancellation, improved audio processing and several smart listening features that were missing from the original model.

For users who want the latest audio capabilities inside Apple’s ecosystem, the new version offers a more advanced experience, while the original AirPods Max still remain capable for everyday listening.

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What’s your opinion about the AirPods Max 2? Share your thoughts on its features and pricing by commenting below.