Mar 17, 2026 10:45:00

Apple's new AirPods Max 2 headphones have arrived, featuring real-time translation support and up to 1.5 times better noise cancellation.

Apple announced its new headphones, the AirPods Max 2 , on March 16, 2026. In addition to improved sound quality and noise cancellation, they also feature live translation capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence.

Apple announces AirPods Max 2 - Apple (Japan)

https://www.apple.com/jp/newsroom/2026/03/apple-introduces-airpods-max-2-powered-by-h2/

AirPods Max 2 features a new high dynamic range amplifier, delivering even cleaner audio while maintaining the sound characteristics of the AirPods Max. Spatial audio improvements include enhanced sound localization, more accurate and stable bass response, and more natural-sounding mid-to-high frequencies.

The AirPods Max 2 support 24-bit 48kHz lossless audio when connected via the included USB-C cable, allowing music creators to get the most out of them throughout their professional workflow in music production apps. Apple states that 'AirPods Max 2 are the only headphones that allow musicians to both produce and mix with personalized spatial audio using head tracking.' Reduced wireless audio latency also improves the gaming experience.

The AirPods Max 2, thanks to

the Apple H2 and a new 'computational audio algorithm,' are said to offer up to 1.5 times more effective active noise cancellation (ANC) than the previous generation. Using ANC, noises such as airplane engines and trains are further reduced, and the new digital signal processing algorithm in 'Transparency Mode' allows users to perceive ambient sounds more naturally.

Furthermore, AirPods Max 2 also features intelligent functions based on Apple H2. The intelligent functions of AirPods Max 2 are as follows:

Adaptive audio
It automatically adjusts the levels of ANC and ambient sound mode according to the surrounding environment to optimize your audio experience.

• Speech detection
When a user starts talking to someone nearby, the content volume is lowered to reduce ambient noise.

Live Translation
Leveraging Apple Intelligence, it translates in real time, enabling users to communicate with people they meet face-to-face in various languages.

- Separate the voices
Leveraging H2's advanced computational audio, it prioritizes picking up your voice while blocking out ambient noise during calls.

Camera remote
When using the camera app or a compatible third-party camera app on your iPhone or iPad, you can remotely take photos or start/stop video recording by pressing the 'Digital Crown' button on your AirPods Max 2.

• Studio-quality audio recording
You can record content with higher-quality audio and a more natural voice.

- Reduction of loud noises
It helps prevent users from being exposed to loud noises while maintaining the sound characteristics that are heard by the user.

Personalized volume
It takes time to learn the user's preferences and automatically fine-tunes the user's listening experience accordingly.

- Responding to Siri
You can respond to Siri without speaking by simply nodding your head for 'yes' or shaking your head slightly for 'no,' making it convenient and private to use in public places.

Eric Treski, Apple's director of audio product marketing, explained, 'With the incredible performance of the H2, AirPods Max are upgraded with up to 1.5 times more effective ANC, delivering the ultimate listening experience for all-day enjoyment. The sound quality is incredibly clean, rich, and acoustically detailed, and combined with features like personalized spatial audio, AirPods Max 2 delivers an incredibly immersive experience.'

AirPods Max 2 will be available for pre-order at Apple Stores starting March 25, 2026, with shipping and in-store sales beginning in early April. The AirPods Max 2 will be priced at ¥89,800 (including tax) and will be available in five colors: Midnight, Starlight, Orange, Purple, and Blue.