Overview
- Apple says Active Noise Cancellation is up to 1.5x more effective, with refined Transparency and new Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Personalized Volume and improved Voice Isolation.
- Audio hardware and processing updates include a high dynamic range amplifier and revised signal tuning aimed at tighter bass, clearer mids and better instrument separation.
- Battery life remains up to 20 hours, and the Smart Case, materials and overall form factor are unchanged from the first generation.
- Orders begin March 25 in the U.S. and more than 30 countries via Apple, with availability set for early April.
- The original AirPods Max remains on sale at lower prices—Best Buy lists $450 and Amazon about $449.99—offering the same design and USB‑C but without Bluetooth 5.3 or H2‑enabled features.