Apple’s AirPods Max, the company’s premium over-ear headphones, have remained largely unchanged since their initial release in December 2020. The most notable update came in September 2024, when Apple replaced the proprietary Lightning port with a USB-C connector and introduced new color options, including Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, and Orange. Despite these changes, the core hardware and features of the AirPods Max have remained consistent.
Industry insiders suggest that a significant overhaul of the AirPods Max is not on the horizon. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, in his Power On newsletter, indicated that Apple has no concrete plans for a major update to the AirPods Max in the near future. This suggests that the current model will continue to be available without substantial changes for the foreseeable future.
The AirPods Max are powered by Apple’s H1 chip, which was first introduced in 2019. This means that some features available in newer AirPods models, such as Adaptive Audio, are absent in the AirPods Max. Despite this, the headphones continue to be priced at $549 in the United States.
In March 2025, Apple released a software update that enabled Lossless audio playback via the USB-C connection when the headphones are connected to a compatible device. This update allows users to experience better-than-CD resolution audio (up to 24-bit/48kHz, 2,304 kbps) with Apple Music’s Lossless tier, enhancing clarity and soundstage. However, this feature requires a wired connection, which may reduce the convenience of wireless use.
Looking ahead, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the next generation of AirPods Max will enter mass production in 2027. He anticipates that the new model will be lighter than the current version, but specific details about other potential features or improvements remain scarce. If this timeline holds, it would mean a seven-year gap between the original AirPods Max and their successor.
In the meantime, consumers seeking high-quality over-ear headphones may consider alternatives such as the Nothing Headphone (1). Released in 2025, these headphones feature a distinctive design, integrated AI capabilities, and a competitive price point of $299. They offer 80 hours of playback and acoustics refined by KEF, positioning them as a strong competitor in the premium audio market.
In summary, while the AirPods Max continue to offer premium audio quality and design, significant updates or a second-generation model are not expected in the near future. Consumers interested in the latest features and technologies may need to explore other options or wait several more years for a substantial update from Apple.
