The AirPods Max 2 has been launched in India for Rs 67,900.
Photo Credit: Apple
The iFixit teardown video reveals that the AirPods Max 2 is almost identical to the AirPods Max.
The major change between the two is that the newer model packs the H2 chip.
AirPods Max 2 sits closer to headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5, and Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 in terms of specs.
The AirPods Max 2 launched in India last month as the successor to the AirPods Max, priced at Rs 67,900 in five colour options, including Blue, Midnight, Orange, Purple, and Starlight. It features the H2 chip, a new high dynamic range amplifier, low latency, and more.
But how much has it changed compared to the predecessor? iFixit has shared its teardown of the AirPods Max 2, revealing some key details of the on-ear headphones. Let us find out whether there are any real upgrades or if it’s just a repackaged variant.
The iFixit teardown video reveals that the AirPods Max 2 is almost identical to the AirPods Max, which was announced in 2020, offering the same design.
The major change between the two is that the newer model packs the H2 chip in both earcups, which enhances noise cancellation, adaptive audio, conversation awareness, voice isolation, and live translation, along with Bluetooth 5.3 and an extra ARM microcontroller.
While the USB-C port is replaceable, accessing it involves removing much of the internal assembly.
A scan revealed that there are no internal differences between the two models, suggesting that the battery placement and electronics are the same.
Meanwhile, disassembly followed the exact same steps as the 2020 teardown, with features such as magnetic ear cushions and a headband that removes easily, which is a positive for replaceability. However, opening the earcups involves stubborn adhesive, and the drivers are screwed in.
Overall verdict from iFixit:
These are not a true new generation. In fact, they are essentially the 2020 headphones with the H2 chip added. Apple missed an opportunity to address known design problems or improve repairability, limiting long-term usability for most people, although skilled DIYers might extend their life.
The Apple AirPods Max 2 price is on the upper side. In terms of price, it competes with premium offerings such as the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX. However, in terms of features and performance, the AirPods Max 2 sits closer to headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2, and Sennheiser Momentum 4.
Are there any design changes between AirPods Max 2 and the 2020 model?
No, the teardown shows the AirPods Max 2 is almost identical to the 2020 AirPods Max in design, with identical internal assembly steps and no structural changes.
What are the main upgrades of the AirPods Max 2 compared to the original AirPods Max?
The AirPods Max 2 primarily upgrades the original by including the H2 chip in both earcups, enhancing noise cancellation, adaptive audio, voice isolation, conversation awareness, live translation, and adding Bluetooth 5.3 with an extra ARM microcontroller. Other design elements and internal components largely remain unchanged.
Is the AirPods Max 2 more repairable than the previous model?
No significant improvements in repairability were made. Like the original, the AirPods Max 2 features magnetic ear cushions and a detachable headband, which aid in replaceability, but opening the earcups requires dealing with stubborn adhesive and screwed drivers, making repairs challenging for most users.
How does the battery setup in AirPods Max 2 compare to the original AirPods Max?
A scan in the teardown revealed no internal differences between the models, indicating that the battery placement and electronics inside the AirPods Max 2 are the same as in the original AirPods Max.
Is the USB-C port on the AirPods Max 2 user-replaceable?
While the USB-C port is replaceable, accessing it requires removing much of the internal assembly, making it a difficult process for regular users.
How does the AirPods Max 2 compare in price and features to its alternatives?
Priced at Rs 67,900, the AirPods Max 2 competes with premium headphones like the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 and Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX in cost. Feature-wise and performance-wise, it is closer to Sony WH-1000XM5 (Rs 27,989), Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 (Rs 49,900), and Sennheiser Momentum 4 (Rs 24,990).
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