Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) forthcoming AirPods Max, slated for a late 2024 release, is expected to feature only minor updates, including a transition from Lightning to USB-C and new color options. The changes are reportedly in compliance with European Commission regulations requiring USB-C usage. This information was shared by Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter, published Today.

The limited upgrade may disappoint customers due to the $550 price tag of the current model which already lacks certain features due to aging hardware. The recently released AirPods Pro 2 offers Adaptive Audio functionalities like Adaptive Noise Control, Personalized Volume, and Conversation Awareness powered by an advanced H2 chip. These features are absent in the AirPods Max.

Gurman suggests that there are no immediate plans to add the H2 chip to the new AirPods Max model at its launch but leaves room for potential changes. The older H1 chip will continue to power these headphones.

Looking ahead, substantial upgrades are anticipated for other products in Apple’s AirPods lineup next year. These include fourth-generation AirPods with Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), a new design, case, and enhanced audio capabilities. Additionally, Apple reportedly plans to launch the AirPods Pro 3 in 2025 with a fresh design and an additional chip.