On Tuesday, Apple officially released their premium over-ear headphones, dubbed AirPods Max. Are you interested in purchasing Apple’s new high-end AirPods Max? Here are a few things you should know before you buy.
Charger not included.
Yes, you read that right. Only a USB-C to Lightning cable is included in the box. Customers interested in purchasing AirPods Max will need to supply their own USB-C charger, and if they don’t own one, Apple will happily sell you a 20W USB-C brick for $19 USD.
The AirPods Max Smart Case does not charge your AirPods Max, it only allows them to enter an “ultra-low power state” mode. Also, as of this writing, you cannot purchase an extra Smart Case nor decide which case color ships with your model.
Replacement Ear Cushions cost $69.
In the event you need to replace the ear cushions on your AirPods Max, or even swap yours for a different color, Apple will sell you a pair of replacement ones for $69 USD. You can only choose between the colors available on AirPods Max, Apple doesn’t sell them in other colors like Apple Watch bands.
Need a Lightning to 3.5 mm Audio Cable? That’ll cost you.
For customers interested in plugging their AirPods Max into their desktops or laptops during long listening sessions, Apple will sell you one for $35 USD.
“Connect your AirPods Max or Beats Solo Pro headphones to the audio-out port on an airplane, iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other device,” says Apple.
AirPods Max will work with non-Apple devices.
Just like regular AirPods and AirPods Pro, the AirPods Max will work on non-Apple devices, just with a few caveats. Customer who use AirPods Max on a non-Apple device will not have access to Spatial Audio, Siri, or Instant Pairing to devices.
Apple says: “AirPods Max can be used as Bluetooth headphones with Apple devices using earlier software and with non-Apple devices, but functionality is limited.”
AppleCare
Customers wanting to protect their new investment can purchase AppleCare+ for $59. This extends the warranty for two more years and covers you for up to two accidental damage claims per year.
“Every set of AirPods, Beats earphones, or Beats headphones comes with one year of hardware repair coverage through its limited warranty and up to 90 days of complimentary support. AppleCare+ extends your coverage to two years from your AppleCare+ purchase date and adds up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months, each subject to a service fee of $29, plus applicable tax. In addition, you’ll get 24/7 priority access to Apple experts via chat or phone,” says Apple.
What are your thoughts on AirPods Max? If you’re planning on purchasing AirPods Max, sound off in the comments.
