This year, Apple updated the AirPods Max, not with a full-fledged second generation, but by introducing a USB-C port and new color options. Unfortunately, this latest USB-C variant has lost a significant feature that was available in the original model.
No wired playback on AirPods Max with USB-C
The updated AirPods Max with USB-C are largely similar to the original models featuring Lightning, aside from their different charging ports and color choices.
Nevertheless, a major benefit from the original AirPods Max is no longer present.
They allowed for wired playback.
By purchasing Apple’s Lightning to 3.5 mm Audio Cable, you could connect your Lightning AirPods Max to any headphone jack, enabling wired listening.
This capability was particularly useful for activities like airline travel, podcast recordings, and various other scenarios. While it didn’t technically offer lossless audio quality, the wired connectivity was a great convenience.
However, during a recent DMN Happy Hour podcast, it was revealed that the latest AirPods Max models have undergone a change.
Currently, there is no option for wired playback with the USB-C model of the AirPods Max.
Connecting via USB-C is ineffective, and Apple does not provide any adapters that support this function. Numerous Reddit discussions have recorded users’ attempts to achieve wired playback using various third-party adapters, all with no success.
Is there a chance Apple will restore wired support?
Not all is lost.
It remains a possibility that Apple may reintroduce wired playback through a new adapter or via a firmware update for the AirPods Max. However, it would be prudent not to base purchase decisions on this potential.
As things stand, the new USB-C AirPods Max lack a crucial feature that their Lightning counterparts possessed.
Does this change matter to you? Do you believe Apple will enable wired playback down the line? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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