Apple appears to have put an end to its AirPods Max development ambitions, according to the latest information reported by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg.
Despite a recent update in September 2024 introducing the USB-C port and new color options, the Cupertino giant would not have “ no concrete project » to further develop its high-end headset.
As a reminder, Apple launched its first wireless headset in December 2020 at the premium price of 629 eurosand this high price was probably one of the reasons for its mixed success. According to Mark Gurman’s internal sources, insufficient sales of the original AirPods Max would not justify allocating additional resources to develop significant new hardware features.
No AirPods Max 2 on the program at Apple
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The last update from September 2024 turned out to be minimalist, limited to replacing the Lightning port with USB-C and introducing new colors. Apple has not even integrated the H2 chip, although present in the AirPods Pro, thus depriving the AirPods Max of the much-appreciated Adaptive Audio features.
The technical characteristics therefore remain identical to those of 2020 : 20 hours of battery life, active noise reduction, and the “digital crown” control mechanism. Although the headset is known for its sound isolation qualities and reliability, some users have reported problems with condensation under the ear cushions during prolonged use, although they remain easily detachable for cleaning.
According to Gurman, Apple will maintain the marketing of AirPods Max in their current form for the “foreseeable future”. The headset retains its place in the range, finding its audience particularly in high-end sports halls in Los Angeles or New York, despite its high price and its now dated technology.
This situation raises questions about the future of Apple’s premium audio segment. With no price drop planned or major update planned, the AirPods Max are likely to remain frozen in their current configuration for several yearslike their first version which remained unchanged for almost four years.
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