iFixit Teardown: AirPods Max 2 Features Same Design, No Fixes for Old Problems [Video]

AirPods Max 2 have undergone their first comprehensive teardown, and the results confirm that Apple's latest over-ear headphones are almost entirely identical to the original model released six years ago. iFixit's disassembly of the new hardware reveals that while the processing power has improved, the mechanical architecture shows no visible changes addressing known physical shortcomings.



The AirPods Max 2 arrived earlier this month as the latest revision following the 2024 USB-C update, which itself was a minor update to the 2020 original. A look inside the new ear cups reveals that the dual-cell battery placement, the drivers, and the antenna assemblies are carryovers from previous generations. The primary internal shift is the transition from the H1 chip to the H2. This silicon upgrade enables or supports the new software-driven features, including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Live Translation.


Disassembly of the ear cups continues to be a difficult process for anyone without specialized tools. iFixit encountered the same heavy application of stubborn adhesive around the mid-plate and the center of the cup where the driver sits. This adhesive makes accessing the internal components significantly harder and increases the risk of damaging the delicate ribbon cables found throughout the chassis. Interestingly, the teardown confirmed that the battery is rated for 2.53 Wh. Given that the design and connectors appear to be identical to past generations, these batteries should theoretically be cross-compatible across all three versions of the headphones.

One of the most notable findings involves a long-standing user complaint regarding moisture. iFixit found no evidence of design changes intended to address the condensation build-up that has historically plagued the AirPods Max. Many users have reported hardware failures after moisture accumulates inside the ear cups during long listening sessions, yet Apple appears to have made no visible effort to improve the internal seals or protect the electronics from this specific failure point.

The repairability outlook remains mixed. While the magnetic ear cushions and the easily removable headband are excellent for serviceability, the glued-in internals and lack of official spare parts from Apple continue to limit the device's lifespan. Even at the Genius Bar, it appears Apple often replaces defective units rather than performing internal repairs.

The AirPods Max 2 maintain their premium $549 retail price, though you can currently grab the AirPods Max 2 on Amazon for $529, a release-day discount of $20.