When Apple unveiled the latest iteration of its AirPods Max wireless noise-canceling headphones earlier this year, I was looking forward to significant improvements, such as a new case design, reduced weight, and support for lossless audio. What we received instead was USB-C charging—useful, but not groundbreaking—and a selection of new colors. This wasn’t quite the update I was hoping for.
I’m not here to discourage you from considering the updated AirPods Max entirely. For many users, the switch to USB-C could be a compelling reason to make the purchase, particularly for those who have successfully transitioned away from Lightning-connected devices.
That said, if you frequently find yourself on airplanes or if you’re looking for a gift for a traveler, it might be wise to hold off on the updated AirPods Max for the time being. Here’s why:
Bluetooth connectivity is expected to be standard in all in-flight entertainment systems eventually, with some even potentially utilizing Auracast for easier wireless listening (no Bluetooth pairing needed). However, that future is still several years away. For most flyers today, the usual practice is to plug headphones into a 3.5mm audio jack (or the increasingly common dual-jack setup).
The original AirPods Max, which came with a Lightning connector, didn’t include a 3.5mm analog audio input cable; Apple offered one as an optional accessory for $35. Regrettably, there’s no comparable accessory available for the new USB-C version of the AirPods Max. To clarify: the updated AirPods Max connect solely via Bluetooth.
I contacted Apple to inquire if a 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable might be on the horizon. After all, several brands, including Bowers & Wilkins, Master & Dynamic, and Sonos, have already released USB-C headphones that include these cables, indicating it’s not an unfeasible concept. As of now, I have not received a response.
On a positive note, there is still a way to enjoy in-flight entertainment even if you opt for the USB-C AirPods Max. This is the same method that Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro users have relied on for years: purchasing a portable Bluetooth transmitter to take along when you travel.
Bluetooth transmitters are battery-operated devices that connect to an analog source (like a seat-back entertainment system or the headphone jack on a TV) and wirelessly send audio to paired earbuds or headphones. Some transmitters even allow pairing with two devices at once.
With Black Friday sales approaching, now might be an ideal time to invest in a transmitter. However, it’s worth noting that you shouldn’t need to buy extra accessories for a premium wireless headphone product from a brand like Apple.
