Apple has refreshed the AirPods Max for the first time since their 2020 launch, now introducing a USB-C port. The updated AirPods Max USB-C are available in five new colors.
Apple introduced the AirPods Max, its first over-ear headphones, in 2020. Instead of announcing a successor at the recent event, Apple unveiled a refreshed version featuring a new charging port and additional color options.
When the AirPods Max launched, they came in space gray, silver, sky blue, green, and pink. Now, Apple has released them in five new colors: blue, purple, midnight, starlight, and orange. These new colors also feature USB-C ports, not a Lightning port like the original. The switch to USB-C also means buyers get a braided USB-C charging cable in the box, not a Lightning to USB-C cable.
Aside from the new colors and port, nothing has changed. You still get active noise cancellation in Transparency mode, personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, Audio Sharing, always-on Siri, and up to 20 hours of listening time with ANC enabled.
According to Apple, the new AirPods Max USB-C offers impressive battery life. With Active Noise Cancellation or Transparency mode enabled, users can enjoy up to 20 hours of listening time on a single charge. This endurance extends to movie playback with Spatial Audio on, and even for calls, providing up to 20 hours of talk time. For those in need of a quick boost, just 5 minutes of charging delivers approximately 1.5 hours of listening time.
AirPods Max USB-C price and release date
The price remains unchanged at $549 on Amazon.com and £499 on Amazon.co.uk. Pre-orders are open now, and the over-ear headphones will be available on September 20.
With Apple’s AirPods Max just months away from its fourth anniversary, it faces competition from newer headphones. Competitors include models like the cheaper Sonos Ace. It offers a wide range of features, high-fidelity sound, and support for Qualcomm aptX Lossless. Sonos employs 40mm dynamic drivers and eight microphones for active noise cancellation and transparency mode. Thanks to motion sensors, the Sonos Ace supports 3D audio including head tracking.
Sonos Ace headphones are available on Amazon for $449 / £367.98.
