Title: What Lies Ahead for Apple’s AirPods Range: AirPods Max 2 and AirPods Pro 3
Apple is continuously enhancing its audio offerings, having recently unveiled two variants of AirPods 4 and an updated AirPods Max featuring USB-C connectivity. While these changes have sparked interest, focus is now shifting towards the highly awaited AirPods Pro 3, anticipated in 2025, alongside the elusive AirPods Max 2. Here’s what we’ve gathered about the future of Apple’s high-end headphones and earbuds.
AirPods Max 2: Speculation and Reality
Debuted in December 2020, the AirPods Max marked Apple’s entry into over-ear headphones, receiving acclaim for their premium design, remarkable sound quality, and superior noise cancellation. Yet, nearly four years later, enthusiasts still await a genuine second-generation version.
In 2021, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman mentioned that Apple had no near-term intentions for a second generation but was exploring new color options. By 2023, Gurman indicated that Apple was indeed working on an AirPods Max 2, potentially targeting a late 2024 launch. Instead, Apple decided to implement a slight refresh of the original model, incorporating USB-C connectivity and fresh color choices.
In his November 2024 Power On newsletter, Gurman observed that Apple currently has “no definitive plans” for a substantial update to the AirPods Max. He pointed to sluggish sales as a significant factor in Apple’s reluctance to commit to a full redesign or major enhancement.
What Could AirPods Max 2 Bring?
Should Apple eventually launch a genuine AirPods Max 2, various enhancements could be anticipated:
– A new H2 or H3 audio chip for improved performance and efficiency
– Support for Lossless audio through a wired USB-C connection (already available in the updated AirPods Max)
– Advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
– Longer battery life and quicker charging
– Lighter design for enhanced comfort during prolonged use
However, with no official confirmation or significant leaks indicating a release timeframe, fans might need to wait until at least 2025—or potentially longer—for a comprehensive AirPods Max successor.
AirPods Pro 3: Health Features on the Way
While the AirPods Max 2 remains uncertain, Apple is diligently developing the AirPods Pro 3, projected to debut in 2025. As reported by Bloomberg, the third-generation AirPods Pro may unveil innovative health-related features, further integrating Apple’s suite of wellness tools.
Possible health features might include:
– Hearing aid capabilities: Apple has previously introduced hearing testing features in AirPods Pro 2, and the upcoming generation could enhance this with certified hearing aid functionalities.
– Body temperature monitoring: Speculation suggests Apple is creating a version of AirPods Pro that includes built-in sensors or even a camera capable of measuring body temperature via the ear canal. This approach could yield more precise readings than the Apple Watch, which measures temperature at the wrist.
– Illness detection: By examining temperature trends and other biometric data, AirPods Pro 3 could potentially alert users to early signs of illness, such as a cold or fever.
These features would not only improve the practicality of AirPods Pro but also establish them as essential elements in Apple’s expanding health and wellness ecosystem.
What About AirPods 4?
Apple has recently introduced two new versions of the AirPods 4, providing a balanced option between the standard AirPods and the Pro lineup. These models feature aspects such as Active Noise Cancellation and USB-C charging, rendering them an appealing choice for users seeking premium functions without the heftier price of the Pro versions.
Conclusion
Apple’s AirPods range is undergoing a transformation. While the future of AirPods Max 2 remains uncertain due to slow sales and limited development interest, the AirPods Pro 3 is poised for a 2025 launch with promising new health features. Meanwhile, the revamped AirPods Max with USB-C and the fresh AirPods 4 models deliver gradual enhancements for users eager to upgrade.
As always, Apple’s strategies can shift rapidly, so enthusiasts of the AirPods Max and Pro series should stay alert for further updates in the coming months.
