iFixit has disassembled the AirPods Max 2 and confirmed that the improvements are limited to the chip. Apple has made no changes to the design, repairability, or known weaknesses.
The AirPods Max 2 have been on the market for a few days and have received mostly positive reviews from testers – better sound, stronger noise cancellation, and numerous new software features thanks to the H2 chip. However, while the audio quality has clearly improved, a recent teardown by the repair portal iFixit reveals that Apple has made no progress whatsoever in terms of design and repairability.
Identical Design, new Chip
iFixit completely disassembled the AirPods Max 2 and directly compared it to the first-generation USB-C model. The result is clear: the internal components are virtually identical. The opening steps, the arrangement of components, and the overall construction are the same as the predecessor. The only visible difference is the two H2 chips, which replace the previous H1 in each earbud.
This confirms what Apple itself has stated: The AirPods Max 2 are purely a chip upgrade in an unchanged casing. This is sufficient for sound quality and the new features – but problematic for the product's longevity.
Known vulnerabilities remain
iFixit criticizes Apple in particular for not addressing the known weaknesses of the first generation. One frequently reported problem concerns condensation that forms in the earcups in humid environments and can damage the electronics over time. For headphones costing €579, a design solution would have been expected – but it is completely absent.
Similarly, the battery and USB-C port remain difficult to access. Both components are among the parts most prone to wear and tear or failure in headphones. Easier access would significantly extend the lifespan of the AirPods Max.
No spare parts, no repair instructions
Another point of criticism from iFixit concerns Apple's self-service repair program. Although Apple has provided replacement parts and official repair guides for iPhones, Macs, and iPads in recent years, both are completely lacking for the AirPods Max. There are neither replacement parts nor instructions that would allow users or independent repair shops to perform simple repairs themselves.
iFixit makes it clear: If Apple offered instructions and components through its self-service repair program and designed the battery and USB-C port to be more accessible, the AirPods Max would be a significantly more sustainable product.
AirPods Max 2: Repairability Score remains at 6 out of 10
Since the design remains unchanged, the AirPods Max 2 inherit the same repairability score as their predecessor: 6 out of 10 points. This isn't a bad score for headphones – but it also shows that Apple is deliberately not exploiting the potential for a better rating.
For buyers deciding between the AirPods Max 2 and its predecessor, the teardown delivers a clear message: the added value lies solely in the H2 chip and its associated features. Those hoping for a lighter or more easily repairable design will be disappointed with the second generation as well. Rumors suggest that a fundamentally redesigned model might not appear until 2027 – possibly with reduced weight and a new casing. (Image: Shutterstock / Stock Holm)
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