Watch out Sony and Bose, Apple now wants a slice of the wireless headphone market. The US technology firm has just announced the launch of its new AirPods Max cans which, unlike its famous earbuds, sit over the ears to provide a more immersive listening experience. This design puts them in direct competition with the likes of Sony’s award-winning WH‑1000XM4 and the brilliant Bose Noise Cancelling 700s.
On paper, Apple’s new headphones certainly sound impressive with the US firm boasting that its headphones feature a breakthrough listening experience.
Tucked inside the unique-looking design is a 40-mm Apple-designed dynamic driver that provides rich, deep bass, accurate mid-ranges, and crisp, clean high-frequency.
You’ll also find each ear cup is equipped with an Apple-designed H1 chip and advanced software to help deliver the highest quality listening experience possible.
Utilising each of the chips’ 10 audio cores — capable of 9 billion operations per second — computational audio powers an experience that includes Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and spatial audio.
If you’ve ever had an Apple Watch strapped to your wrist you’ll be well aware of the digital crown which helps navigate the screen and this wheel also features on the AirPods Max. The Digital Crown has been included to offer precise volume control and the ability to play or pause audio, skip tracks, answer or end phone calls, and activate Siri.
Just like all of Apple’s headphones the new AirPods Max will also link seamless to your iPhone and will switch between all of your Apple tech without you needing to dig into the settings menu.
Once fully charged they’ll keep playing for around 20 hours without needing a refill and the AirPods Max even come with a soft, slim Smart Case that puts AirPods Max in an ultralow power state that helps to preserve battery charge when not in use.
“AirPods are the most popular headphones in the world, beloved for their effortless setup, incredible sound quality, and iconic design. With AirPods Max, we are bringing that magical AirPods experience to a stunning over-ear design with high-fidelity audio,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.
“The custom acoustic design, combined with powerful H1 chips, and advanced software enable AirPods Max to use computational audio to wirelessly deliver the ultimate personal listening experience.”
Now are you sitting down? Good because the AirPods Pro Max aren’t exactly cheap. In fact, Apple wants £549 of your hard-earned cash before shipping them out to you.
If that’s no issue then they will be available from Tuesday, December 15 in numerous colours.
