# Apple Launches USB-C AirPods Max: A Small Update After Four Years
In a highly anticipated reveal, Apple presented the refreshed AirPods Max at its recent “It’s Glowtime” event. Initially released in 2020, the original AirPods Max have not seen modifications for almost four years, igniting considerable speculation about possible enhancements. Yet, the newest version of these high-end headphones predominantly showcases a transition to USB-C charging, leaving many enthusiasts unimpressed by the absence of substantial improvements.
## AirPods Max with USB-C: Same Specs, New Connection
At the event, Apple emphasized the change from the Lightning port to a USB-C port for powering the AirPods Max. This update reflects the wider industry movement towards USB-C as a standard for charging and data transfer. Furthermore, Apple rolled out new color choices for the headphones, offering consumers a broader range of aesthetic options.
Despite the buzz surrounding the launch, the fundamental hardware of the AirPods Max remains identical. The headphones continue to use the original H1 chip, which indicates that users will not notice any enhancements in sound quality or active noise cancellation (ANC) features. This has resulted in disappointment among those who anticipated a more significant upgrade, particularly following the recent introduction of the AirPods 4, which are equipped with the advanced H2 chip celebrated for improved ANC.
Apple’s website indicates that the new AirPods Max are classified as a modified version, labeled “1.2” in iOS, rather than introducing a new generation. This categorization implies that the updates are more facelifts than functional improvements, concentrating on the USB-C port and color variations instead of any internal advancements.
## Active Noise Cancellation: No New Features
While Apple asserts that the new AirPods Max provide “2x more Active Noise Cancellation,” this claim is a bit misleading. The comparison is made to the new AirPods 4, which lack silicone tips, a vital element for effective noise isolation. Consequently, users of the AirPods Max should not expect any noteworthy advancements in ANC functionality compared to the original version.
## Pricing and Availability
The newly launched USB-C AirPods Max are available for pre-order at the same price of $549 as the initial model. For consumers who don’t need the new color options or the USB-C connection, the former version with the Lightning connector can be bought for $100 less. This pricing approach may prompt some potential buyers to rethink their choices, particularly considering the absence of new features.
## Conclusion
The debut of USB-C AirPods Max represents a minor update in Apple’s premium headphone collection. While the transition to USB-C is a positive shift, the lack of significant hardware improvements has left many fans feeling let down. As Apple continues to evolve in other areas of its product range, it is uncertain whether future versions of the AirPods Max will present the advancements that users have been longing for. For the time being, consumers will need to evaluate the advantages of the new charging port and color selections against the unchanged performance of these upscale headphones.
