This Apple Vision Pro-inspired AirPods Max 2 concept makes me want one now

(Image credit: Parker Ortolani)

A concept of AirPods Max 2 has been shown off, taking inspiration from the headband of Apple Vision Pro alongside updates that the rest of the AirPods line has been given.

It's been over two years since the debut of the AirPods Max, Apple's wireless headphones, and while AirPods Pro has seen updates in both its software and hardware, especially with Adaptive Audio coming to them with iOS 17, Max owners are being left to dream about what the next version could look like.

Thankfully, concepts like these from Parker Ortolani show just how good a new version of AirPods Max could be, and how overdue this update is for many.

From the MagSafe connector to a foldable design, there's a lot to like here, but again, it makes us wonder when Apple will finally bring out AirPods Max 2.

A vision for the ears?

Next generation AirPods Max concept. A refined design featuring Vision Pro elements to improve comfort. H2 and U1 to offer new software functionality like adaptive audio. And gorgeous new finishes to give them a more modern look that matches the rest of your Apple devices. pic.twitter.com/2WM1P6om70June 17, 2023

The choice of colors here mirrors the MacBook Air line, such as Midnight, Starlight, Silver, and Space Gray to better differentiate these from the AirPods Max that you can buy right now.

It's interesting that this concept doesn't have USB-C. Instead, Ortolani explains in one concept image that the MagSafe connector not only charges the headphones but also acts as a wired solution for lossless playback.

Keeping in mind that MagSafe doesn't have this feature, it's an interesting thought that could save the AirPods Max 2 from having an extra USB-C port just for this.

Comfort is also something that's important to these headphones, and seeing the headband mirror the Vision Pro's in this concept, alongside a dial to adjust the fit of them to your head, would be an instant purchase for many who may have struggled with wearing the AirPods Max and instead looked at AirPods Pro.

But as a bunch of features aren't available on AirPods Max, such as Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness, any update to these would be welcome, and hopefully, some of these features from Ortolani's concept may make an appearance in an upcoming model soon.

Daryl is iMore's Features Editor, overseeing long-form and in-depth articles and op-eds. Daryl loves using his experience as both a journalist and Apple fan to tell stories about Apple's products and its community, from the apps we use everyday to the products that have been long forgotten in the Cupertino archives.

Previously Software & Downloads Writer at TechRadar, and Deputy Editor at StealthOptional, he's also written a book, 'The Making of Tomb Raider', which tells the story of the beginnings of Lara Croft and the series' early development. He's also written for many other publications including WIRED, MacFormat, Bloody Disgusting, VGC, GamesRadar, Nintendo Life, VRV Blog, The Loop Magazine, SUPER JUMP, Gizmodo, Film Stories, TopTenReviews, Miketendo64 and Daily Star.