AirPods Max 2: Could USB-C Lossless Audio Be Coming Soon?
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Apple launched the original AirPods Max at the end of 2020, suggesting that the AirPods Max 2 might arrive later this year or in 2024. However, the release window has not yet been confirmed, nor have any potential features it might boast. In related news, Beats introduced their new Studio Pro today, providing some insight into the specs we might expect from the next-generation Apple over-ear headphones, including wired lossless audio.
The Beats Studio Pro is the 4th generation over-ear Bluetooth headphones from Apple's subsidiary. It's priced at $350 or lower than the current AirPods Max. The set comes with several audio improvements, such as fully adaptive ANC and Find My integration, among others.
The most notable addition to the Beats' Studio Pro is the USB-C port that supports wired lossless audio playback at 24-bit for up to 48 kHz through a dedicated digital-to-analog converter. These are also the first headphones in the entire Beats range to support lossless audio via USB-C, as most of the company's over-ear headphones previously featured a 3.5 mm analog jack.
The new interface could likely be fitted on the Apple AirPods Max 2. This is not surprising for a couple of reasons. First, the AirPods Max sits in a more premium line and are the most expensive headphones offering. At the same time, USB-C is heavily anticipated to replace the Lightning port in all Apple AirPods headphones and devices.
While it's not a guarantee we will actually see the wired lossless audio on the AirPods Max 2 at all, the type-C audio has other advantages beyond higher sound quality when utilized. These include more types of data transmitted over the cable and simultaneous listening and charging of the headphones, all may be added to the AirPods Max 2.
There's no solid information as to when the 2nd gen Apple AirPods Max could debut. The most plausible is to fall alongside the iPhone 15, which is also confirmed to get USB-C. Likewise, what other features do you think Apple should introduce on the unannounced AirPods Max 2?
