Apple Launches AirPods Max 2 with Better ANC, Smarter Features, and Lossless Audio
TL;DR: Apple has launched the AirPods Max 2 with up to 1.5x better ANC, improved sound quality, and new intelligent features powered by the H2 chip. Priced from RM2,299, the headphones are coming to Malaysia early next month.
Apple has officially unveiled the AirPods Max 2, introducing a significant upgrade to its premium over-ear headphones with improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), enhanced sound quality, and a suite of intelligent features powered by the new H2 chip.
The new model retains the iconic design of its predecessor but focuses heavily on audio performance and smarter user experiences, while also expanding its appeal to content creators.
AirPods Max 2 will be available to order starting March 25 in five colours: midnight, starlight, orange, purple, and blue, with availability in Malaysia expected early next month.
Upgraded ANC and More Natural Transparency
With the introduction of the H2 chip, Apple claims the AirPods Max 2 deliver up to 1.5 times more effective ANC compared to the previous generation. This allows the headphones to better block out environmental noise such as aeroplane engines and commuter trains.
At the same time, improvements to computational audio and digital signal processing make Transparency mode sound more natural, helping users stay aware of their surroundings without compromising audio clarity.
According to Eric Treski, Apple’s director of Audio Product Marketing, the goal was to create a more immersive and consistent listening experience throughout the day.
Higher Fidelity Audio and Lossless Support
Audio quality also sees a notable boost. AirPods Max 2 feature a new high dynamic range amplifier that delivers cleaner sound while maintaining the signature tuning of the original model.
Spatial Audio has been refined with better instrument separation, more accurate bass, and more natural mids and highs. For users seeking the highest fidelity, the headphones now support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio when connected via USB-C.
This also enables ultra-low latency audio, making the headphones suitable not just for listening but also for professional workflows such as music production on apps like Logic Pro.
Smarter Features Powered by H2
The H2 chip enables a range of intelligent features that bring AirPods Max closer to Apple’s latest ecosystem experiences.
Adaptive Audio dynamically adjusts ANC and Transparency levels based on surroundings, while Conversation Awareness lowers media volume when the user starts speaking.
New additions include Live Translation powered by Apple Intelligence, allowing real-time language translation during conversations, and Voice Isolation, which enhances call clarity by reducing background noise.
Other features include Personalised Volume, which learns user preferences over time, and Siri gesture controls that let users respond to voice prompts with simple head movements.
Built for Creators and Everyday Use
Apple is also positioning the AirPods Max 2 as a tool for creators. The headphones support studio-quality audio recording, making them suitable for podcasters, musicians, and interviewers.
A new camera remote feature allows users to control photo and video capture remotely using the Digital Crown, adding convenience for content creators.
Gamers can also benefit from reduced wireless latency, particularly when using Game Mode across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS devices.
Pricing and Availability
The AirPods Max 2 AirPods Max 2 starting early next month, with a starting price of RM2,299.
Customers purchasing the headphones may also be eligible for a three-month free subscription to Apple Music.
