Apple fans have long been waiting for a major upgrade to the AirPods Max, and now it’s here — and it’s bigger than just a new port. In September 2024, Apple officially refreshed its premium over-ear headphones, swapping the outdated Lightning connector for the increasingly universal USB-C. But the real headline isn’t just the charging port: with the latest firmware update, the USB-C AirPods Max now deliver true 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio and ultra-low latency performance — something audiophiles and power users have been demanding for years.
What’s New With the USB-C AirPods Max
The updated AirPods Max retain their $549 price tag but now ship in five new colors: Midnight, Blue, Purple, Orange, and Starlight. Aside from cosmetic changes and the updated port, the hardware inside remains largely similar to the original 2020 model — but that’s where software comes in to shake things up.
The real breakthrough came with the 7E99 firmware update and the release of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4. Together, they unlock true lossless audio playback when the AirPods Max are connected via a USB-C cable. In addition, Apple introduced ultra-low latency audio performance, making these headphones a far better choice for tasks like gaming, live streaming, and music production where timing matters.
Key Features Enabled by the Update
- Lossless Audio: When connected via a USB-C cable, AirPods Max can now deliver pure 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio, offering a cleaner, richer, and more dynamic listening experience than ever before.
- Ultra-Low Latency: The update dramatically reduces audio lag, bringing improved synchronization for gaming, video editing, and other real-time applications.
- Personalized Spatial Audio for Creators: Users can create and mix music with Personalized Spatial Audio enabled, providing more immersive sound environments for production work.
- Simplified Charging Ecosystem: With the shift to USB-C, users can now charge their iPhone, MacBook, iPad, and AirPods Max with a single cable, reducing clutter and making travel easier.
Important Details To Know
- Wired Connection Requirement: Lossless audio only works via a wired USB-C connection. Bluetooth connections still use AAC compression, which doesn’t support true lossless playback.
- New Accessories: Apple has released a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable for $39, allowing users to plug into standard headphone jacks while maintaining lossless quality.
- Exclusive to USB-C Version: The original Lightning-based AirPods Max do not support the new lossless features. Only the refreshed USB-C models have access to this upgraded audio capability.
Why This Matters
This update signals Apple’s growing seriousness about high-fidelity audio and its commitment to bringing pro-level sound features to more of its mainstream products. Until now, Apple’s portable audio lineup was notably missing true lossless support without third-party workarounds. With the USB-C AirPods Max, Apple bridges the gap between wireless convenience and audiophile-quality sound — at least when connected by wire.
It’s also a strategic move: as rumors swirl about future AirPods Pro models and Apple’s broader audio plans, this upgrade positions the AirPods Max as a strong contender not just for casual listeners, but for serious music lovers and creative professionals who demand more from their headphones.
Availability
The USB-C AirPods Max are available now for $549 through Apple and authorized retailers. They come in Midnight, Blue, Purple, Orange, and Starlight — bringing not only upgraded performance but a splash of fresh style as well.
If you’ve been waiting for AirPods Max to truly live up to their premium price tag, this might be the perfect time to dive in.
Key Takeaways
- AirPods Max now feature USB-C charging instead of Lightning while maintaining the same $549 price point.
- The headphones come in five new colors: Midnight, Blue, Purple, Orange, and Starlight.
- iOS 18 will bring additional features to enhance the AirPods Max experience.
Apple’s USB-C AirPods Max Reveal
Apple has updated its premium over-ear headphones with USB-C connectivity and fresh colors while maintaining the iconic design that fans have come to appreciate. The 2024 refresh brings modern connectivity standards to the AirPods Max lineup.
Innovative Design and Color Palette
The new AirPods Max retain their distinctive aluminum earcups and mesh headband that made the original version stand out in the premium headphone market. Apple introduced an exciting new color palette replacing the previous options.
The refreshed colors include:
- Starlight
- Midnight
- Orange
- Blue
- Purple
These new finishes give customers more personalization options while maintaining the premium aesthetic. The stainless steel frame continues to provide durability and a luxurious feel that users expect from Apple’s high-end audio products.
The physical controls remain unchanged, with the Digital Crown providing precise volume adjustment and playback controls. This familiar interface allows existing users to transition seamlessly to the new model.
Enhanced Audio Features
The 2024 AirPods Max continue to deliver exceptional audio quality through Apple-designed dynamic drivers that produce rich, detailed sound. Active Noise Cancellation technology blocks outside noise, creating an immersive listening experience.
Transparency mode allows users to hear their surroundings when needed without removing the headphones. The built-in Adaptive EQ automatically tunes music to the shape of a user’s ear for consistent, high-quality playback.
With iOS 18, AirPods Max will receive new software features that enhance the listening experience. Personalized Spatial Audio creates a theater-like sound that follows head movements, making content more engaging.
Dynamic head tracking responds to how users move, adjusting the audio field accordingly. This technology makes music, movies, and games feel more immersive and realistic.
Technical Advancements
The most significant upgrade is the shift from Lightning to USB-C connectivity, aligning AirPods Max with Apple’s broader move toward the universal standard. This change simplifies charging options for users who own other USB-C devices.
Technical specifications include:
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Multiple built-in microphones for calls and noise cancellation
- Optical sensors for auto-play/pause
- Position and case-detect sensors
- Up to 20 hours of listening time with ANC enabled
The USB-C AirPods Max maintain the same $549 price point as their predecessor. They became available for pre-order on September 9, 2024, following the announcement at Apple’s Glowtime event, with full availability beginning September 20.
Apple has also made environmental improvements, using 100% recycled tin in solder and recycled gold in circuit board plating. These changes reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Pricing, Availability, and Compatibility
The new AirPods Max with USB-C maintains Apple’s premium pricing while offering seamless integration across the company’s device ecosystem. The update brings modern connectivity without changing the core experience that users have come to expect.
Cost and Release Details
The AirPods Max with USB-C retail for $549, maintaining the same price point as the previous Lightning port version. This positions them as Apple’s premium headphone offering, significantly above the AirPods Pro 2 and standard AirPods 4.
Apple made the USB-C version available for pre-order immediately following their announcement, with official release set for September 20, 2025. The headphones come in several color options, including some fresh new colors that refresh the lineup visually.
Compared to competitors like Sonos Ace and high-end Beats products, the AirPods Max remain at the higher end of the pricing spectrum. However, many users find the premium build quality and Apple ecosystem integration worth the investment.
Device Integration and Ecosystem
The USB-C port represents a significant improvement for Apple device users. The new connector allows for charging with the same cable used with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices, simplifying the charging experience.
AirPods Max still feature the H1 chip, enabling:
- One-touch pairing with Apple devices
- Automatic switching between devices
- “Hey Siri” voice activation
- Seamless iOS 18 integration
The headphones work optimally with iPhone 16 and other Apple products but maintain compatibility with non-Apple devices through standard Bluetooth connections. The smart case continues to accompany the headphones, helping extend battery life when not in use.
