Source: Apple
What you need to know
- Apple recently announced the AirPods Max headphones.
- The headphones feature H1 chips, which allows some of their features to work with Windows and Android.
- Some features, such as spatial audio, only work with Apple hardware.
Apple just announced the AirPods Max headphones. The high-end over-ear headphones have plenty of fancy features, some great color options, and will work seamlessly with Apple hardware, such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads. Unsurprisingly, some of the features of the AirPods Max will only work with Apple hardware, but that doesn't mean Windows users are left entirely in the cold. The first shipments of AirPods Max are set to arrive on December 15, 2020. You can order a pair now for $549.
As reported by Stephen Nellis from Reuters, the AirPods Max have an H1 audio processor in each ear, which allows transparency mode and noise cancellation to work on Windows and Android devices. Other features, such as spatial audio, will only work with specific Apple hardware.
This is par for the course for Apple hardware. If you're on Apple hardware and software across the board, you'll get a seamless experience and excellent support. If you mix in hardware or software from other companies, such as a Windows 10 PC, you'll get some support but will miss out on some features.
While some of our readers are loyal to one operating system, many people have a combination of iOS, Android, and Windows devices. While it won't be the best experience for the AirPods Max, it's nice that someone who picks up the headphones for their iPhone, iPad, or other supported device can still use them to some capacity with their Windows PC or Android device.
Our sister site iMore covered the launch of the AirPods Max and will follow up with more coverage as they start shipping. Make sure to check out their coverage for all the latest on Apple's latest and greatest headphones.
Worth the wait

AirPods Max
High-fidelity audio
You can purchase a pair of AirPods Max in five different colors, space gray, silver, green, sky blue, and pink.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Apple releases new limited-edition Apple Watch Series 6 Black Unity
Apple has just released a brand new limited-edition Apple Watch Series 6 to celebrate Black History Month.

Taron Egerton to star in new Apple TV+ show 'In with the Devil'
A new report says Taron Egerton will star in a new Apple TV+ series called 'In with the Devil' alongside Paul Walter Hauser.

iPhone 12 Pro camera supplier LG sees 43% revenue rise in 2020
iPhone 12 Pro camera supplier LG InnoTek saw its 2020 revenue rise by 43% on the previous year thanks to the iPhone 12's launch in October.

Show off your sophisticated side with these leather Apple Watch bands
You can get a stylish leather band for your Apple Watch no matter your price point. Here are some options.