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AirPods Max 2 not coming until second half of next year

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Apple's second-generation AirPods Max may not arrive until late 2024 or early 2025, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo, who uses his knowledge of Apple's supply chain to predict the company's future products, says the next refresh for Apple's "important acoustic product" is expected between the second half of 2024 and the first half of 2025. Along with the AirPods Max 2, Kuo also lists a second-generation HomePod mini and a low-cost version of Apple's AirPods as part of the refresh.

Kuo did not offer any further details on what to expect from the AirPods Max 2. However, some features that could be included in the next-generation headphones are a USB-C port instead of Lightning, improved noise cancellation, longer battery life, a U1 chip for Precision Finding in the Find My app, and new color options. The current AirPods Max were released in December 2020 and retail for $549. Image credit: 9to5mac In a previous prediction, Kuo said Apple is aiming for a $99 price for a more affordable standard AirPods. The $129 second-generation AirPods are the cheapest option currently available, while the third-generation AirPods are priced at $169 with a Lightning charging case and $179 with a MagSafe case. Another analyst, Jeff Pu, has also predicted the arrival of lower-priced AirPods next year.

The current AirPods Max are among the best-sounding headphones on the market, with audio capabilities that rival the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. However, they may not be the best option for those on a budget or who use an Android device.

Adding weight to Kuo's prediction is the lack of leaks surrounding the next AirPods Max. If a launch were planned for later this year, we would expect to have seen more rumors about the headphones by now. Those considering purchasing the current AirPods Max can rest assured that they will likely get a fair amount of use out of them before the next iteration arrives.

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Published to Apple Scoop on 3rd February, 2023.