Apple launches AirPods Max 2 with H2 chip and improved ANC in India: Price, features

Apple AirPods Max

• Apple launches AirPods Max 2 with improved noise cancellation
• New H2 chip offers Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Translation
• AirPods Max 2 available in five colors, orders start March 25

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Apple has introduced the next generation of its premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max 2, featuring improved Active Noise Cancellation, enhanced audio quality, and new intelligent capabilities.

The headphones are powered by the Apple H2 chip, which enables several new features including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Voice Isolation and Live Translation.

AirPods Max 2 will be available to order starting March 25 and will begin shipping early next month. The headphones come in five colour options — midnight, starlight, orange, purple and blue.

Improved noise cancellation and sound

Apple says the new headphones deliver Active Noise Cancellation that is up to 1.5 times more effective than the previous generation, helping block out more external noise such as airplane engines or train sounds.

New computational audio algorithms and a refined microphone array also improve Transparency mode, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings while still hearing natural environmental sound.

AirPods Max 2 feature a new high dynamic range amplifier designed to deliver cleaner audio while maintaining the sound profile of the original AirPods Max.

The headphones also improve the experience of Spatial Audio with better instrument separation, more consistent bass response and clearer mids and highs.

When connected using the included USB-C cable, AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio for music, movies and gaming.

New intelligent features

The H2 chip enables a range of smart features designed to adapt audio based on how users interact with their environment. Adaptive Audio automatically balances noise cancellation and transparency depending on surrounding sound levels.

Conversation Awareness lowers audio volume when the user begins speaking to someone nearby, helping make conversations easier without removing the headphones. Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence, can assist users in communicating across languages during in-person conversations.

Voice Isolation improves call quality by prioritising the speaker’s voice while filtering out background noise.

The headphones also introduce a camera remote feature. Users can press the Digital Crown to capture photos or start and stop video recording in the Camera app on iPhone or iPad.

Apple is also positioning the device as a tool for creators. Studio-quality audio recording enables podcasters, interviewers and musicians to capture clearer and more natural-sounding voice recordings.

Features designed for everyday use

AirPods Max 2 also include Loud Sound Reduction to limit exposure to excessive environmental noise while maintaining listening quality. Personalised Volume automatically adjusts audio levels based on a user’s listening preferences over time.

Users can also respond to Siri notifications using simple head gestures, such as nodding to confirm or shaking their head to decline.

Price and availability

AirPods Max 2 will be available to order from March 25 through Apple’s website and the Apple Store app. Retail availability will begin early next month in the US and more than 30 other countries and regions.

In India, the headphones start at Rs 67,900.