Overview

• Gurman reports in his Power On newsletter that a true second‑generation AirPods Max is unlikely in the near term.
• The only recent change to the model was a USB‑C port and new colors in September 2024, a move driven in part by EU rules.
• Apple’s audio engineering resources are said to be shifting toward higher‑volume AirPods earbuds and work on speakers and microphones in other products.
• The headphones occupy an awkward commercial position, remaining viable to sell but not moving enough units to justify major new investment.
• Coverage points buyers to alternatives such as Beats over‑ear models for those unwilling to wait for an uncertain refresh timeline.