Apple AirPods Max 1st Generation with Lightning, Space Gray — A2096 / MGYH3AM/A

Product Overview

Apple AirPods Max A2096 is the original generation of Apple’s wireless over-ear headphones. The Space Gray configuration uses a Lightning connector for charging and belongs to the first AirPods Max hardware generation introduced in December 2020. It should not be confused with the later USB-C version or AirPods Max 2.

The headphones use an Apple-designed dynamic driver and an Apple H1 headphone chip in each ear cup. Their audio system supports Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, and Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking when used with compatible Apple devices and software. Physical controls consist primarily of a Digital Crown and a separate noise-control button.

The over-ear structure combines anodized aluminum ear cups with magnetically attached cushions and a stainless-steel headband frame covered by a knit-mesh canopy. Apple specifies a headphone weight of approximately 384.8 grams. The included Smart Case places the headphones into an ultra-low-power state when stored.

Battery life is rated at up to 20 hours under Apple’s specified listening conditions, including use with Active Noise Cancellation. The Lightning version can also connect to compatible analog audio sources when used with the appropriate Lightning-to-3.5 mm audio cable.

Product Information

Identification

Physical

Product Identifier Summary

Model Number

The hardware model number identifies a specific generation or hardware configuration. A2096 identifies the original Lightning-equipped AirPods Max generation.

MPN

The manufacturer part number identifies a specific retail configuration. MGYH3AM/A is associated with the Space Gray Lightning version distributed for the U.S. market.

UPC

A UPC is a standardized retail barcode used for inventory and product matching. Public catalog records for this particular listing contain conflicting UPC values, so no UPC is presented as verified here.

EAN

EAN is an international retail barcode format related to UPC. An EAN is omitted because the underlying barcode could not be verified consistently across available records.

GTIN

GTIN is the broader standardized product-identification framework that includes UPC and EAN formats. No GTIN is stated because the associated barcode records conflict.

ASIN

The ASIN identifies the supplied online catalog record. It is separate from Apple’s A2096 hardware model number and MGYH3AM/A retail part number.

ISBN

ISBN identifiers apply to books and qualifying publications and are not applicable to wireless headphones.

Common Uses

• Wireless music listening from compatible Bluetooth devices.
• Listening to podcasts, audiobooks, and streaming media.
• Reducing environmental sound through Active Noise Cancellation.
• Allowing more surrounding sound through Transparency mode.
• Watching movies and television programs on compatible Apple devices.
• Using Spatial Audio with compatible content and Apple hardware.
• Making and receiving voice calls.
• Participating in compatible video conferences and online meetings.
• Listening from analog audio equipment with a compatible Lightning-to-3.5 mm audio cable.
• Switching between supported Apple devices associated with the same Apple Account.

Maintenance & Care

• Keep the headphones and Lightning connector away from excessive moisture.
• Do not place liquid directly onto the ear cups, cushions, microphone openings, or charging connector.
• Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth for routine exterior cleaning.
• Remove the magnetic ear cushions when they require separate cleaning.
• Allow cleaned components to dry completely before reattaching them or using the headphones.
• Do not use abrasive materials or sharp objects on the anodized aluminum ear cups.
• Keep the Lightning port free of lint and debris.
• Store the headphones in a clean, dry location when not in use.
• Use the Smart Case when appropriate to place the headphones into their low-power storage state.
• Avoid prolonged storage in extreme heat or direct sunlight.
• Keep firmware updated automatically through compatible Apple devices.

Safety Information

• AirPods Max are not specified as waterproof or water resistant.
• Avoid exposing the headphones to rain, immersion, or substantial moisture.
• Do not charge the headphones when the Lightning connector or charging cable is wet.
• Listening at high volume for extended periods can contribute to hearing damage.
• Use a listening level that permits appropriate environmental awareness when safety requires it.
• Active Noise Cancellation should not be treated as certified hearing protection.
• Do not attempt to puncture, crush, burn, or disassemble the internal rechargeable battery.
• Stop using the headphones if they become unusually hot, physically damaged, or otherwise abnormal.
• Keep charging cables and accessories away from young children when they could present an entanglement or choking hazard.

Technical Specifications

Product History

Apple announced the original AirPods Max on December 8, 2020. The headphones became available later that month and represented Apple’s first AirPods product built around a full-size over-ear headphone design.

The original generation used Lightning for charging and was offered in Space Gray, Silver, Sky Blue, Green, and Pink. Its hardware included an H1 chip in each ear cup and support for Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, and Spatial Audio.

Apple updated the first-generation AirPods Max line in 2024 with a USB-C charging connector and a revised selection of colors. The Space Gray Lightning configuration documented here remained a distinct earlier hardware version identified by model A2096.

Apple later introduced AirPods Max 2 in 2026. The second-generation model uses newer processing and connectivity hardware and should not be confused with either the original Lightning model or the later USB-C revision of the first generation.

Key Features

• Full-size over-ear headphone design.
• Apple-designed dynamic acoustic driver.
• H1 headphone chip in each ear cup.
• Active Noise Cancellation.
• Transparency mode.
• Adaptive EQ.
• Spatial Audio support.
• Dynamic head tracking.
• Nine-microphone system.
• Digital Crown for physical control.
• Dedicated noise-control button.
• Automatic head detection.
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
• Lightning charging.
• Up to approximately 20 hours of rated listening time.
• Fast charging support.
• Magnetically attached ear cushions.
• Anodized aluminum ear cups.
• Stainless-steel headband frame.
• Breathable knit-mesh canopy.
• Smart Case with low-power storage function.

Package Contents

• Apple AirPods Max in Space Gray.
• Smart Case.
• Lightning to USB-C charging cable.
• Documentation.

Compatibility

iPhone

AirPods Max can connect wirelessly to compatible iPhone models through Bluetooth. Apple-specific features depend on the iPhone model and installed operating-system version.

iPad

Compatible iPad models support AirPods Max through Bluetooth. Spatial Audio, automatic switching, Siri, and related ecosystem functions require compatible hardware and software.

Mac

AirPods Max can be paired with compatible Mac computers. Features available through macOS vary according to the computer model and software version.

Apple Watch

Compatible Apple Watch models can send Bluetooth audio directly to AirPods Max for supported music, podcast, and other audio functions.

Apple TV

AirPods Max can connect to compatible Apple TV hardware for private wireless listening. Spatial Audio support depends on compatible hardware, software, and content.

Apple Vision Pro

Bluetooth audio compatibility is available with supported Apple Vision Pro software. Available AirPods-specific features depend on the headphones and system software.

Android Devices

AirPods Max can function as standard Bluetooth headphones with compatible Android phones and tablets. Apple-exclusive features such as automatic device switching and some Spatial Audio functions are not available in the same manner.

Windows Computers

Compatible Windows computers can pair with AirPods Max using Bluetooth for audio playback and supported communication functions. Available controls and microphone behavior depend on the computer’s Bluetooth hardware and software.

Analog Audio Sources

The Lightning-equipped model can receive analog audio when used with Apple’s compatible Lightning-to-3.5 mm Audio Cable. A standard passive 3.5 mm cable alone cannot connect directly to the headphones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product is B08PZHYWJS?

B08PZHYWJS identifies the Space Gray version of the original Apple AirPods Max with a Lightning connector.

What is the hardware model number?

The original Lightning-equipped AirPods Max uses hardware model number A2096.

What is MGYH3AM/A?

MGYH3AM/A is Apple’s retail manufacturer part number associated with the Space Gray U.S. configuration of the original AirPods Max.

Is this the USB-C AirPods Max?

No. This configuration uses a Lightning connector. Apple introduced a USB-C version of the first-generation AirPods Max later.

Is this AirPods Max 2?

No. Model A2096 belongs to the first AirPods Max generation and predates AirPods Max 2.

What color is this configuration?

The documented configuration is Space Gray.

Does AirPods Max have Active Noise Cancellation?

Yes. The A2096 model includes Active Noise Cancellation using its microphone and processing system.

What is Transparency mode?

Transparency mode uses external microphones to pass surrounding sound into the headphones while audio continues to play.

What is Adaptive EQ?

Adaptive EQ adjusts parts of the reproduced sound based on the acoustic conditions inside the ear cushions.

Does AirPods Max support Spatial Audio?

Yes. Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking is supported with compatible Apple devices, software, and content.

Does it have an H1 chip?

Yes. The original AirPods Max contains one Apple H1 headphone chip in each ear cup.

How many microphones does it have?

The original specification identifies nine microphones in total, with microphones assigned to noise cancellation and voice pickup.

Does it use Bluetooth?

Yes. The original Lightning model uses Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology.

Can it connect to Android phones?

Yes. AirPods Max can pair with compatible Android equipment as Bluetooth headphones, although several Apple ecosystem functions are unavailable.

Can it connect to Windows?

Yes. A Windows computer with compatible Bluetooth hardware can pair with AirPods Max for supported audio functions.

Can it be used with a cable?

Yes. The Lightning model can connect to an analog 3.5 mm audio source when used with a compatible Lightning-to-3.5 mm Audio Cable.

Does a 3.5 mm audio cable come in the box?

No. The standard package does not include a Lightning-to-3.5 mm audio cable.

Does it have a 3.5 mm headphone jack?

No. There is no conventional 3.5 mm socket built into the headphones.

How is the headphone charged?

This model charges through its Lightning connector using a compatible charging cable and power source.

How long does the battery last?

Apple rates the original model for up to approximately 20 hours of listening under specified conditions, including Active Noise Cancellation.

Does it support fast charging?

Yes. Apple specifies that approximately five minutes of charging can provide around 1.5 hours of listening time.

Can the headphones be turned off manually?

AirPods Max do not use a conventional physical power switch. Power-management states are controlled automatically, with the Smart Case providing an ultra-low-power storage state.

What does the Smart Case do?

When the headphones are stored in the Smart Case, they enter an ultra-low-power mode designed to preserve battery charge.

Does the Smart Case charge the headphones?

No. The Smart Case does not contain a battery and does not recharge AirPods Max. Charging requires a cable connected to the headphones.

Are the ear cushions removable?

Yes. The ear cushions attach magnetically and can be removed for cleaning or replacement.

Are replacement ear cushions available?

Compatible replacement ear cushions can be installed because the cushions are removable components.

What are the ear cups made from?

The external ear cups use anodized aluminum.

What is the headband made from?

The structural frame uses stainless steel, while the top canopy uses a breathable knitted mesh material.

How much do AirPods Max weigh?

The A2096 headphones weigh approximately 384.8 grams, excluding the Smart Case.

Are AirPods Max waterproof?

No. Apple does not specify a waterproof rating for this generation.

Are they sweat resistant?

No formal sweat- or water-resistance rating is specified for the original A2096 AirPods Max.

Can AirPods Max detect when they are being worn?

Yes. Optical and position sensors contribute to automatic head-detection functions.

What does the Digital Crown control?

The Digital Crown can be used for functions including volume adjustment, playback control, call management, and Siri activation.

What does the noise-control button do?

The dedicated button switches between supported noise-control modes, including Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode.

When were the original AirPods Max released?

Apple announced AirPods Max on December 8, 2020, with commercial availability beginning later that month.

Buying Considerations

Lightning Versus USB-C

The B08PZHYWJS Space Gray configuration belongs to the older Lightning-equipped hardware revision. Accessories and charging cables should therefore be selected specifically for the Lightning connector.

Generation Identification

AirPods Max products now exist across multiple hardware revisions. Model A2096 identifies the original Lightning version and helps distinguish it from later USB-C hardware and AirPods Max 2.

Weight

At approximately 384.8 grams, the original AirPods Max is heavier than many conventional wireless headphones. Perceived comfort depends on head shape, fit, listening duration, and personal preference.

No Traditional Power Button

The headphones manage their power states automatically rather than through a standard on/off switch. The Smart Case is part of the intended low-power storage workflow.

No Standard Headphone Jack

Wired analog listening requires a specialized compatible Lightning-to-3.5 mm audio cable. Ordinary passive 3.5 mm cables cannot connect directly to the headphones.

Apple Ecosystem Features

Basic Bluetooth functionality extends beyond Apple products, but automatic switching, Siri integration, Spatial Audio implementation, and other functions depend on compatible Apple hardware and software.

No Published Water-Resistance Rating

The original AirPods Max should not be treated as sports headphones with a formal sweat- or water-resistance classification.

Replaceable Ear Cushions

The magnetic cushions are removable and replaceable. This allows the cushioning components to be cleaned separately and replaced when worn.

Customer Feedback Summary

This section summarizes recurring themes found in publicly available owner and customer feedback. These observations represent generalized user experiences and are not verified product specifications. Individual results vary according to fit, source equipment, software, environment, and personal preference.

Commonly Praised Aspects

• Users frequently describe the sound presentation as detailed and well controlled across music and video content.
• Active Noise Cancellation is commonly cited as effective for travel, offices, and other steady-noise environments.
• Transparency mode receives frequent positive comments for providing a relatively natural sense of surrounding sound.
• The Digital Crown is often preferred by users who favor tactile controls over touch-sensitive surfaces.
• The aluminum construction and overall physical finish are frequently viewed as substantial and precisely assembled.
• Integration with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV is commonly described as convenient by users already using multiple Apple devices.
• Users often appreciate the removable magnetic ear cushions for cleaning and replacement.
• Battery duration is generally regarded as adequate for extended listening sessions and travel.

Commonly Reported Limitations

• The relatively high headphone weight can cause discomfort for some users during long listening sessions.
• The Smart Case design receives mixed feedback because it protects only part of the headphones and does not function as a charging battery.
• Some owners report moisture or condensation forming inside the ear cups after extended wear under certain environmental conditions.
• The absence of a conventional manual power switch is inconvenient for some users.
• Wired analog listening requires a specialized cable rather than a standard headphone cable.
• Some owners report that the metal ear cups can show cosmetic marks or scratches with handling.
• The lack of a formal sweat- or water-resistance rating limits suitability for environments where moisture exposure is likely.
• Users outside the Apple ecosystem receive fewer integrated software functions than users with compatible Apple devices.

Reported comfort, noise cancellation, battery duration, Bluetooth reliability, and condensation behavior vary according to environmental conditions, fit, usage patterns, firmware, and connected equipment.

Related Products

• Apple AirPods Max 1st Generation USB-C: Later revision of the first AirPods Max generation using USB-C instead of Lightning.
• Apple AirPods Max 2: Second-generation full-size AirPods model introduced after the original AirPods Max family.
• Apple AirPods Pro: In-ear AirPods family with Active Noise Cancellation and a substantially smaller form factor.
• Apple AirPods: Open-fit wireless earbud family designed for portable everyday listening.
• AirPods Max Ear Cushions: Removable magnetic replacement cushions designed for compatible AirPods Max models.
• Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm Audio Cable: Cable used for analog wired audio with Lightning-equipped AirPods Max.

Last Updated

August 9, 2026