Apple has announced its AirPods Max, a wireless over-ear headset with active noise cancellation. The headphones will be on sale from December 15 for a suggested retail price of 629 euros.
Apple uses a proprietary acoustic design with a 40mm driver in the AirPods Max. Each ear cup contains an H1 chip, which Apple previously used in other AirPods earphones. According to Apple, this chip makes functions such as Adaptive EQ, active noise deceleration and spatial audio possible. The headphones use Bluetooth 5.0 and have a Lightning connection to charge the battery. A 3.5mm connection is missing.
The headband has a breathable design and, according to Apple, is made to distribute weight and reduce pressure. The headband frame is made of stainless steel and fitted with telescopic arms. According to Apple, the ear cups have a mechanism that allows them to be turned independently, which should ensure a good fit. The ear pads have memory foam to create a good seal.
One of the ear cups has a rotary knob for operation, which Apple calls a Digital Crown, just like on the Apple Watch. The button can be used for volume control, answering phone calls and activating Siri.
The AirPods Max use sensors to detect whether they are placed on the user’s head. For example, the music automatically pauses when users take off the headphones or lift an ear cup. Music will resume automatically when users put the headphones back on.
According to Apple, the battery lasts up to 20 hours when listening to music, with active noise cancellation and spatial audio enabled. The headphones also have a function to automatically switch between a connected iPhone, iPad and Mac. For example, users can answer a call with their phone while listening to music on a Mac.
Apple sells the AirPods Max in gray, silver, green, blue and pink. When ordering, customers can choose an inscription on an ear cup at no extra cost. The headphones have a suggested retail price of 629 euros and orders will be delivered from December 15th.