Following Apple’s recent WWDC event, discussions have emerged regarding the perceived lag in updates for the AirPods Max. While Apple showcased upcoming audio features for the AirPods Pro 2, some argue that the AirPods Max may be falling behind. However, a closer examination reveals that the lack of these specific features may not necessarily warrant an immediate update for the AirPods Max. This article explores the features in question and delves into why a more substantial update may be necessary for the over-the-ear headphones.
The AirPods Pro 2 Exclusive Features:
During WWDC, Apple revealed a range of new features exclusively coming to the AirPods Pro 2. These features include Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume, and Conversation Awareness. However, all of these functionalities rely on the new H2 chip, which is currently only present in the AirPods Pro 2. Consequently, AirPods Max users will miss out on these additions.
Consideration of AirPods Max Use Cases:
When assessing the importance of these exclusive features, it becomes evident that they may have limited relevance for AirPods Max users. The article outlines various scenarios where the AirPods Max excel, such as focusing on work, watching movies on planes, and enjoying high-quality music. In these private settings, features like Conversation Awareness and Adaptive Audio are less significant. Additionally, Personalized Volume, while potentially useful, is not a dealbreaker, as manually adjusting the volume using the crown is manageable. The shorter Siri activation phrase is a convenience but not a critical necessity for most users.
Desiring Substantial Updates:
While acknowledging the value of the upcoming AirPods Pro 2 features, the article argues that they alone are insufficient to warrant an immediate second-generation release for the AirPods Max. Instead, it suggests that more significant improvements are needed. One aspect that could be addressed is the weight of the headphones, as the current stainless-steel construction makes them noticeably heavy. The article suggests that adopting lighter materials like titanium, as seen in the Apple Watch Ultra and rumoured for the iPhone 15 Pro, could enhance the overall comfort and usability of the AirPods Max. Additionally, the transition from Lightning to USB-C is proposed as a long-awaited upgrade.
While the AirPods Pro 2’s exclusive features may create a sense of disparity, the article asserts that these features alone do not justify an immediate update to the AirPods Max. It highlights the limited applicability of certain features in the context of how users typically utilize the over-the-ear headphones. Instead, it advocates for more substantial enhancements, such as weight reduction and connectivity improvements, to provide users with a compelling reason to upgrade. Ultimately, the article encourages Apple to prioritize meaningful updates that address tangible user needs and preferences.
