Apple’s new AirPods Max are officially here and, like most Apple products, the accessory line is expanding rapidly. If you are an AirPods Max user looking to update the experience, here are some accessories that may be useful.
Headphone mount and support
My favorite way to store headphones when not in use is with a headset mount under the table. Like many others, I use Elevation Lab’s “The Anchor” headset support under the table. It is affordable and incredibly simple to install, using a custom 3M adhesive instead of staples or holes.
Another option is the Anchor Pro, which adds features to a more industrial design combined with integrated cable management. For long-term use, this could be a better option, as the AirPods Max are on the heavier side of the headphones category.
Finding a solid headset support that is not covered with RGB lights and designed for gamers is complicated today. That said, one of the most popular and stylish options comes from JOKItech. This headset holder is finished in aluminum with a walnut headrest at the top to store your headphones when not in use.
If you are looking for something as simple as possible, this $ 10 option will also do the job correctly.
Obviously, because of how the Smart Case leaves the mesh strip exposed, it is actually possible to place the AirPods Max, while in your Smart Case, on a headset stand or under the table. On the other hand, now that we know that the AirPods Max Smart Case doesn’t actually have as much of an impact on battery life as originally thought, you can also discard the case completely.
A new Kickstarter also claims to offer a “Max Stand” for AirPods Max, including the ability to charge them wirelessly. We always suspect Kickstarters, but we should keep an eye on this one.
AirFly and AirFly Pro
AirFly is an exclusive accessory from Twelve South staff, best known for its exclusive line of accessories for iPhone, iPad and Mac. AirFly’s goal is to allow you to use Bluetooth headphones, such as the AirPods Max, with headphones connectors wired ear – like those found on airplanes, cars and fitness equipment.
If you plan to use AirPods Max in the mentioned environments, AirFly is a must-have accessory. If you want to pair two pairs of headphones at the same time, also check the AirFly Pro accessory. AirFly Pro also adds support to turn any AUX-in port into a wireless audio receiver.
Read our full AirFly review:
Radius adapter for 3.5 mm
Finally, an accessory that I hate to mention because it should be in the box: Apple Lightning for 3.5mm audio cable. At $ 35, it’s expensive, but necessary if you want to use your AirPods Max via wired connectivity.
This bidirectional cable can be used with 3.5 mm audio input and output ports, allowing you to connect your AirPods Max or Beats Solo Pro headphones to 3.5 mm audio sources, or to connect your iOS device or iPadOS to speakers with 3.5mm audio ports.
Note that, from now on, it appears that many third-party Lightning cables for 3.5mm headsets do not work with AirPods Max. Therefore, you will have to choose Apple’s own cable to ensure compatibility.
WaterField AirPods Max Shield Case
The AirPods Max Smart Case probably received more attention than the headphones themselves because of its controversial design. For this reason, we expect cabinets to be one of the most popular accessory categories in the AirPods Max.
WaterField Designs aims to solve Smart Case problems with its new Shield case, which features a leather design and is available in four different colors: chocolate leather + waxed canvas, black leather + black ballistic, blue leather + black ballistic, and crimson leather + black ballistics
You can learn more about the AirPods Max Shield case from WaterField Designs in my complete practical coverage here.
Other AirPods Max cases:
Coming soon
AirPods Max are a completely new product and, as such, we expect the accessory market to expand in the coming months.
We will keep this post up to date with new accessories, be it covers, headphone stands or something completely new. In the meantime, do you have any favorite AirPods Max accessories? Let us know in the comments!
FTC: We use affiliate links for cars that generate revenue. More.
Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more news from Apple: