Apple Refreshes AirPods Max with USB-C Port and New Color Options
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Apple's new AirPods Max feature new colors and the charging port we've all been waiting for
Apple's September event brings a new version of the AirPods Max, offering new colors, USB-C charging, and improved iOS 18 features. Along with the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and iOS 18, Apple also announced a slew of updates to its line of AirPods, including the AirPods Max. The latest iteration of Apple's premium-grade, over-ear headphones is available for the same $549 price but offers a host of new features. One of the biggest changes in the new AirPods Max is the switch from Apple's proprietary Lightning port to a universal USB-C port for charging and data transfer, in order to comply with laws in the EU that make USB-C the standard for charging. You'll still get a premium build with stainless steel adjustable arms for a custom fit and anodized aluminum outer ear cups to keep the headphones lightweight while trying to resist damage and corrosion. Also: Everything we expect at Apple's iPHoen 16 event: AI features, Airpods, Apple Watch, Series 10, more There's no upgrade for the H1 chip, however, so these headphones may lag a bit behind their H2-using, in-ear counterparts like the AirPods 4. The AirPods Max are set to gain support for Apple's ANC technology and spatial audio tracking with the iOS 18 update. This should give the headphones the ability to create an immersive and personalized experience while listening to music and podcasts, as well as crystal-clear conversations while taking video or audio calls. Read more: How to choose the best AirPods: Expert advice for students and professionals Apple also introduced five new colors for the AirPods Max: midnight, blue, purple, orange, and starlight. This means you can get a pair to match your new iPhone or to show off more of your personal style. You can preorder the newest version of the Apple AirPods Max starting today (September 9, 2024) for the hefty price of $549. The AirPods Max will officially launch on September 20, 2024.
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Apple upgrades AirPods Max with new colors and improved audio features
Apple's September event brings a new version of the AirPods Max, offering new colors, USB-C charging, and improved iOS 18 features. Along with the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and iOS 18, Apple also announced a slew of updates to its line of AirPods, including the AirPods Max. The latest iteration of Apple's premium-grade, over-ear headphones is available for the same $549 price but offers a host of new features. One of the biggest changes in the new AirPods Max is the switch from Apple's proprietary Lightning port to a universal USB-C port for charging and data transfer, in order to comply with laws in the EU that make USB-C the standard for charging. You'll still get a premium build with stainless steel adjustable arms for a custom fit and anodized aluminum outer ear cups to keep the headphones lightweight while trying to resist damage and corrosion. Also: Everything we expect at Apple's iPHoen 16 event: AI features, Airpods, Apple Watch, Series 10, more There's no upgrade for the H1 chip, however, so these headphones may lag a bit behind their H2-using, in-ear counterparts like the AirPods 4. The AirPods Max are set to gain support for Apple's ANC technology and spatial audio tracking with the iOS 18 update. This should give the headphones the ability to create an immersive and personalized experience while listening to music and podcasts, as well as crystal-clear conversations while taking video or audio calls. Read more: How to choose the best AirPods: Expert advice for students and professionals Apple also introduced five new colors for the AirPods Max: midnight, blue, purple, orange, and starlight. This means you can get a pair to match your new iPhone or to show off more of your personal style. You can preorder the newest version of the Apple AirPods Max starting today (September 9, 2024) for the hefty price of $549. The AirPods Max will officially launch on September 20, 2024.
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Apple updates AirPods Max headphones with a USB-C port and new colors | TechCrunch
Apple released a new version of its premium over-the-ear headphones, AirPods Max, on Monday during its 2024 Apple Event. The revamp replaces the AirPods Max's lightning port with a USB-C port, and comes in five new colors: midnight, blue, purple, orange, and starlight. The updated version of Apple's AirPods Max are still $549, and can be pre-ordered today. With a USB-C port, the updated AirPods Max will now match the rest of Apple's product lineup in ditching the lightning port. Through iOS 18, Apple says its over-the-ear headphones now feature personalized spatial audio for music, movies, and games. Overall, Apple's changes to the AirPods Max were fairly cosmetic on Monday, and didn't feature any of the AI upgrades or noise cancelling features announced in other AirPods products. Ever since Apple released the AirPods Max nearly four years ago, there's been some key changes folks have been asking for. The AirPods Max are heavier than your average headphones, and comes with a "case" that barely protects your $550 purchase. We didn't see changes to any of these common gripes on Monday. That said, the AirPods Max still delivers a luxurious listening experience with solid noise cancellation.
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Apple has updated its premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max, with a USB-C charging port and introduced new color variants. The refresh also includes improved audio features and maintains the original price point.
Apple Unveils Updated AirPods Max
Apple has announced a significant update to its high-end over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max, introducing new features and design changes that cater to user demands and industry trends. The refresh comes as part of Apple's broader move towards USB-C adoption across its product line.
USB-C Port: A Welcome Change
The most notable change in the new AirPods Max is the introduction of a USB-C charging port, replacing the previous Lightning connector. This shift aligns with Apple's recent transition to USB-C in its other devices, including the iPhone 15 series
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. The move to USB-C not only provides faster charging capabilities but also offers improved compatibility with a wide range of devices and accessories.New Color Options
Alongside the functional updates, Apple has introduced new color variants for the AirPods Max. While retaining some of the original colors, the company has added fresh options to appeal to a broader range of consumer preferences
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. This expansion of the color palette allows users to better personalize their headphones to match their style.Enhanced Audio Features
The refreshed AirPods Max boasts improved audio features, although specific details about these enhancements are limited. Apple has likely fine-tuned the already impressive sound quality and active noise cancellation capabilities of the original model
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. These improvements are expected to further solidify the AirPods Max's position in the premium headphone market.Pricing and Availability
Despite the notable upgrades, Apple has maintained the original price point of $549 for the new AirPods Max
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. This decision suggests that Apple sees these updates as refinements rather than a complete overhaul of the product. The updated AirPods Max are expected to be available for purchase soon through Apple's official channels and authorized retailers.Related Stories
Industry Impact and User Reception
The introduction of USB-C to the AirPods Max is part of a larger industry trend towards standardization of charging ports. This move is likely to be well-received by consumers who have been advocating for a universal charging solution across their devices
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. The update also demonstrates Apple's commitment to evolving its products based on user feedback and technological advancements.Looking Ahead
While this update brings welcome changes to the AirPods Max, some tech enthusiasts and analysts speculate about future iterations. Potential features for future models could include improved battery life, enhanced spatial audio capabilities, or even the integration of health monitoring sensors
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. As the premium headphone market continues to evolve, Apple's direction with the AirPods Max will be closely watched by both consumers and competitors alike.References
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