Apple’s first over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max, debuted in December 2020 and quickly gained popularity. Since then, however, Apple has been slow to roll out a true successor. Apart from a minor USB-C refresh in September 2024, introduced only to comply with EU regulations, no meaningful updates have been made. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has now put the launch of AirPods Max 2 on indefinite hold, leaving fans waiting with no clear timeline.

Apple’s AirPods Max: Stuck in Limbo with No Major Updates in Sight #AirPodsMax #Appleheadphones #USBC #AirPodsPro2 https://t.co/mf9lWF1cRv
— BreakingOn News (@BreakingOnCom) August 25, 2025

Apple’s AirPods Max currently occupy an unusual position in the market. According to Gurman, they are too popular for Apple to discontinue but not successful enough to justify heavy investment in a next-gen version. This leaves the headphones in limbo, without the same attention or resources devoted to other products in the AirPods family.

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While AirPods Pro and entry-level AirPods have received steady upgrades—ranging from better noise cancellation and spatial audio to adaptive sound and improved battery life—the Max have remained largely unchanged since launch. In nearly five years, the design, drivers, and features have seen no major overhaul, aside from a minor USB-C refresh for regulatory compliance.

New AirPods Max likely aren’t coming anytime soon: reporthttps://t.co/tQVfLwvqCB
— All Apple, Always | News, Reviews, Guides (@iPhone_News) August 24, 2025

At launch in 2020, the AirPods Max were praised for their premium aluminium build, strong audio quality, and seamless Apple integration. Yet their high price tag of $549 (₹59,900 in India) and bulky design limited their appeal. Everyday users often gravitated toward the lighter, more affordable AirPods Pro, which Apple has consistently prioritized with yearly updates.

Meanwhile, Apple has been actively updating its Beats lineup with newer features, improved sound, and USB-C charging at competitive prices. In contrast, the AirPods Max remain stagnant while rivals like Bose, Sony, and Sonos continue innovating with advanced designs, stronger noise cancellation, and longer battery life. For now, the Max stay relevant as a luxury accessory but risk falling further behind the competition.

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