Since the AirPods Max headphones came out on December 15, more and more complaints have been coming in MacRumors readers who have encountered a problem with condensation.
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Some AirPods Max owners who have worn their headphones for extended periods of time have found condensation to form in the outer ear. From MacRumors reader ssong:
So I’ve had my AirPods max for a little less than a week and have noticed that there is a fair amount of condensation in the ear cup after extended use.
it stands out best when you detach the magnetic ear pads from the ear cup.
The condensation seems to take place regardless of the temperature, and most people have reported seeing it after several hours of use, but for some, it shows up within an hour or two. One user has claimed that the condensation has resulted in active noise canceling issues, but this has not been repeated by other AirPods Max owners and no one else has reported issues caused by condensation.
Other AirPods Max owners have said the same problem has occurred with headphones from other brands. From MacRumors reader JBGoode:
I am getting this on my Sony WH1000XM3. I’ve had them for a long time and it doesn’t matter. Have none of you had cans above your head before? Your ears will sweat and there will be some condensation. I think it is quite common for these types of headphones.
The AirPods Max are not water resistant and those who suffer from the condensation are concerned about the life of the headphones with the water droplets in them. The ear pads are not affected and remain dry despite condensation in the ear cups.
Some AirPods Max owners have returned the headphones, while others have picked up AppleCare + in case of future issues. Apple has not yet commented on the matter.