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AirPods Max 2: H2 Chip Powers Stunning Noise Cancellation
30 May
Summary
- New H2 chip significantly enhances noise cancellation by 1.5x.
- Features like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness improve user experience.
- Design remains identical to the first generation, five years later.

Apple has unveiled the second generation of its AirPods Max headphones, five years and three months after the original's release. The most significant upgrade is the integration of the newer H2 chip, enhancing active noise cancellation by up to 1.5 times, creating an immersive quiet listening experience. New features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Loud Sound Reduction are powered by the H2 chip, improving sound management and user interaction.
Despite the technological advancements, the physical design of the AirPods Max 2 remains unchanged, retaining the ear cup design, webbed headband, and semi-case from the 2020 model. The headphones were unveiled on March 16, 2026, and are priced at $549 / £499 / AU$999, with new color options available. While the battery life remains at 20 hours, the overall sound quality and user experience have seen notable improvements, particularly for iPhone users with compatible devices.