Just weeks after unveiling the budget-friendly MacBook Neo, Apple has stunned its fanbase with the release of the AirPods Max 2, its latest over-ear headphones. The new model boasts enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, superior audio quality, and lossless streaming capabilities when used with a USB-C cable. However, these improvements come with a hefty price tag of £499 in the UK, equivalent to $549 in the United States, sparking widespread backlash across social media platforms.
Social Media Fury Over Steep Pricing
Tech enthusiasts have taken to platforms like X to express their dismay at the cost, with many labelling it excessive. One user remarked, 'AirPods Max being this expensive is ridic,' while another added, 'Apple really testing our loyalty here.' Critics have pointed out that the AirPods Max 2 are significantly pricier than competing flagship models, such as Sony's WH-1000XM6 and the Sennheiser HDB 630, both retailing at £399—a full £100 less.
Design and Weight Concerns Add to Discontent
Beyond the price, fans have voiced frustration over the lack of design changes and the unchanged weight of 386.2 grams, identical to the predecessor. Sceptics argue this makes them too heavy for comfortable wear, with one tweet stating, 'They're too heavy to wear and still too expensive for what they offer.' The retention of the much-criticised Smart Case, which offers minimal protection during travel, has further disappointed users.
Price Comparison with Apple's Own Products
Keen-eyed observers have highlighted a striking comparison: with an educational discount, Apple's new MacBook Neo laptop costs just £499, the same as the AirPods Max 2. This has led to comments like, 'For $50 less than a pair of headphones, you get an entire 13-inch laptop with an A18 Pro chip, Liquid Retina display, and MacOS. The math isn't mathing.' Another user noted, 'When you realise a MacBook is cheaper than a pair of headphones,' underscoring the perceived value disparity.
Key Specifications and Upgrades
The AirPods Max 2 feature several internal enhancements, including the new H2 chip, which Apple claims makes Active Noise Cancellation 1.5 times more effective than the previous model. Additional features include Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and improved sound quality via a high dynamic range amplifier. Eric Treski, Apple's director of Audio Product Marketing, praised the headphones, saying, 'The sound quality is remarkably clean, rich, and acoustically detailed.'
Available in four colours—starlight, orange, purple, and blue—pre-orders open at midnight on March 25, with availability expected early next month. Despite these upgrades, the overwhelming sentiment among tech communities remains focused on the high cost, with many calling for a more reasonable price point around $299. Apple has been contacted for further comment on the pricing strategy.
