AirPods Max 2: What Rumors Reveal About Apple’s Plans

It’s been over four years since Apple launched the first-generation AirPods Max, and fans have eagerly waited for a real upgrade. While Apple has made some minor tweaks, the core product hasn’t changed—until now. We may finally be seeing early signs of what’s next.

A Long Wait: 7 Years Without a Major Update

The original AirPods Max debuted in December 2020. Since then, they’ve remained mostly unchanged. In 2023, Apple quietly replaced the Lightning port with USB-C and added new color options. But under the hood, it was business as usual. The hardware stayed the same, making these models feel more like AirPods Max 1.1 than a true second generation.

One of the biggest surprises is that Apple didn’t upgrade the chip. The AirPods Max still use the H1 chip from 2019—the same one found in more affordable AirPods. That means no support for Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume, or other features exclusive to the H2 chip found in AirPods Pro 2.

Ming-Chi Kuo Says AirPods Max 2 Are Coming

According to noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the long-awaited AirPods Max 2 are in development. The upcoming model is expected to be significantly lighter, which is great news for users who find the current version—at around 0.85 pounds without the case—a bit too hefty for extended wear.

However, Kuo didn’t provide specific details about just how much lighter the new model will be, or what upgrades we can expect in terms of performance or features. He did mention that mass production is currently expected to begin in 2027.

That’s a long gap—seven years after the original launch. Such a long product cycle is extremely rare for Apple, especially for a premium device that still carries a $549 price tag.

What’s Missing in AirPods Max Right Now?

Even with the minor 2023 refresh, the AirPods Max are starting to show their age. Here’s what they’re currently missing:

• Apple’s H2 chip
• Adaptive Audio and Personalized Volume
• Extended battery life
• Improved Active Noise Cancellation

That’s not to say the AirPods Max are bad—they’re still widely praised for their premium sound and sleek design. But at this price point, they’re beginning to feel outdated when compared to the rest of Apple’s AirPods lineup.

In April 2025, Apple rolled out firmware version 7E101 for the USB‑C AirPods Max. This update unlocked support for lossless audio and ultra‑low latency, but only when connected via USB‑C to a device running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4.

Related: AirPods Max vs. AirPods Pro – Which One Should You Buy?

What to Expect (and What Not to)

So far, the only solid rumor about AirPods Max 2 is the lighter form factor. There’s no confirmed word on a chip upgrade, battery enhancements, or design overhaul. Apple has also stayed quiet about any new smart features or potential pricing changes.

Still, if Apple plans to launch the AirPods Max 2 in 2027, we’ll likely see more concrete leaks and reports over the next year or two. Apple’s usual supply chain hints and early accessory reveals could offer further insight.

For now, if you’re considering buying the current model, remember: you’re investing in tech that’s based on a seven-year-old platform, even with USB-C and firmware updates.

Stay tuned—we’ll keep our ears open for every leak, hint, and announcement leading up to the launch of what could be Apple’s most advanced over-ear headphones yet.

Related articles worth reading:

• Everything We Know About the Upcoming AirPods Pro 3
• Apple Watch Ultra 3 Latest Leaks: Features, Specs, & Release Date
• Upcoming Apple products in 2025: Everything we know so far