Apple announces the second-generation AirPods Max, priced at $549

LootboxPhobia · 2026-03-17T02:42:40+00:00

Apple has released the second-generation premium over-ear headphones AirPods Max, priced at $549, with major upgrades including improved noise cancellation technology, adaptive audio, and real-time translation features. The new headphones are equipped with the H2 chip and will open for pre-orders on March 25 in multiple countries.

LootboxPhobia

2026-03-17 02:42:40

Abstract generation in progress

Investing.com — Apple announced on Monday the release of the second-generation high-end over-ear headphones, AirPods Max, priced at $549, more than five years after the launch of the first-generation product.

This update marks Apple’s first major upgrade since the initial release of over-ear headphones in 2020. The company has added new features and improved noise-canceling technology to compete in the premium headphone market.

This segment is mainly dominated by Sony Group, Bose, and Sennheiser.

Apple stated that the new headphones are equipped with the company’s self-developed H2 chip, powering the latest series of AirPods devices. Pre-orders will begin in over 30 countries and regions starting March 25, with retail sales starting early next month.

The AirPods Max 2 upgrade includes enhanced active noise cancellation, an improved microphone system, and a range of new features, including adaptive audio, conversation awareness, and real-time translation.

The real-time translation feature was first introduced on the AirPods Pro 3 in September last year, allowing users to translate face-to-face conversations across languages via Apple’s AI platform, Apple Intelligence.

Apple also said that the AirPods Max 2 supports high-resolution lossless audio when connected via USB-C, targeting music creators and professional users who require higher fidelity audio.

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