Apple's new over-ear headphones just came out, and many people have questions about them. We received a pair earlier this week, and have been testing them ever since. Today, I'll answer the question: Are AirPods Max waterproof?
Are AirPods Max Waterproof?
The short answer is no, AirPods Max are not waterproof. Despite their high-end design features and huge price tag, AirPods Max are susceptible to liquid damage. Unlike many of the latest iPhones, the AirPods Max do not have a public IP durability rating either. If these headphones are water or dust resistant at all, we can't be sure how much they can withstand.
If you're planning on purchasing a pair, here are a few things to keep an eye out for:
The Smart Case
The AirPods Max case is one of the most talked about aspects of their design, and for good reason. One of the major issues with the AirPods Max Smart Case is the fact that it still leaves the headphones exposed to the elements.
When you place AirPods Max in their case, the cushioned headband sticks out so you can use it as a handle. This means that you can never cover the top portion your headphones, unless you put them in a larger container like a backpack or suitcase.
The Smart Case design also has gaps on the bottom, which leave the charging port and speakers exposed. Liquid could easily penetrate these gaps and wreak havoc on your AirPods Max.
Sweat Resistance
Since the AirPods Max are not waterproof, they might not be the best headphones for exercise either. Liquid damage is unpredictable, so even a small amount of sweat might be enough to seriously harm them.
Before wireless headphones got popular, working out with earbuds or headphones was a serious threat to cell phones. It's possible for sweat to run down a connecting cable and get into a user's headphone jack or Lightning port. When these components come in contact with liquids, the cell phone's entire internal design could get damaged
Since the rise of Bluetooth headphones, issues like this have become less common. However, you may want to consider this factor before deciding on a pair of workout headphones, especially if you're thinking about opting for something as expensive as the AirPods Max.
What To Do If Your AirPods Max Get Wet
If your AirPods Max get exposed to liquid, there are a few steps you can take to try to repair them.
First, wipe off any liquid using a microfiber cloth and place your AirPods Max on a flat and dry surface. If you have any desiccants, place them on and around your headphones. Doing this will create a dry environment for your AirPods Max, and might even dry out the components that got wet.
We do not recommend placing your AirPods Max in rice if they get wet. Rice isn't actually that great at absorbing moisture. It's also possible that a grain could get stuck in your AirPods Max and cause even more damage. For more details, check our our article all about what to do when AirPods get wet!
If your AirPods break after getting wet, contact Apple Support. Apple can repair your AirPods Max in-person or through the mail. Make sure to set up an appointment first if you plan on taking your AirPods Max into your local Apple Store.
AirPods Max Water-Resistance: Explained!
AirPods Max come with a number of cool and exciting features, but water-resistance is not one of them. Make sure to share this article on social media if your friends and family ask if AirPods Max are waterproof. Leave any other questions you have in the comments section down below!
