Apple unveils AirPods Max 2 with 'Live Translation' and H2 chip

Apple has unexpectedly unveiled a new iteration of its premium over-ear headphones, following the recent launch of its latest MacBook range.

The second generation of the AirPods Max arrives at a retail price of $549, marking the first significant update to the product line since its debut in 2020.

By introducing enhanced features and superior noise cancellation, the tech giant aims to challenge the current market dominance held by Bose, Sony, and Sennheiser.

The headphones are powered by the proprietary H2 chip, which facilitates a suite of sophisticated functions including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.

A standout addition is 'Live Translation,' a feature first seen on the AirPods Pro 3. This technology utilises the Apple Intelligence platform to enable users to translate in-person conversations in real time.

For professional users and audiophiles, the device now supports high-resolution lossless audio via a USB-C connection, providing the fidelity required for studio-grade music creation.

Orders for the new model will open on 25 March across more than 30 countries, with retail availability expected early next month.

The redesigned microphone system and improved active noise cancellation represent Apple's commitment to refining its high-end audio hardware.

The company stated that the new headphones would cost $549, more than five years after the ‌first version's launch.

This release positions Apple more aggressively in the luxury audio segment, catering to both the casual listener and the creative professional through a blend of artificial intelligence and hardware engineering.