The H2 chip also supports Siri interactions, allowing you to respond to a request with a nod or shake of your head.

Other upgrades include better power efficiency, better spatial audio, a new amplifier that promises cleaner audio and 24-bit lossless audio support (at least when wired via USB-C).

One thing that’s no surprise: The AirPods Max remain a premium price product, with the second generation selling for $1149 (the same price as the previous model).

Apple‘s first-generation AirPods Max already lead the pack for frequent flyers, according to the New York Times’ Wirecutter, which said: “If you’re willing to pay more for the absolute best active noise cancellation and a more-luxurious design, the Apple AirPods Max over-ear headphones sound great and reduce the most noise in the airplane band of any set we’ve tested.”

That was my experience, too, pitting the Airpods Max gen 1 against Sony’s WH-1000XM6 on a plane, though the M6’s ANC is very close.

Orders open March 26 via Apple’s website.

Chris Keall is an Auckland-based member of the Herald’s business team. He joined the Herald in 2018 and is the technology editor and a senior business writer.