Does the Iphone Xs Max Come with Airpods

No, the iPhone XS Max does not come with AirPods in the box. Apple only includes a pair of wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, along with a USB power adapter and charging cable. To get AirPods with your iPhone XS Max, you must purchase them separately, though many retailers offer bundle deals that can save you money.

Picture this: you finally unbox your brand-new iPhone XS Max. The sleek design gleams in your hands. You peel back the packaging film, lift the lid, and start digging through the contents. Your heart races with excitement. Will there be AirPods tucked inside?

If you’re hoping for a pair of those iconic white wireless earbuds waiting for you, I have some news that might surprise you. The iPhone XS Max does not come with AirPods. Not even the entry-level AirPods 2. Not even a promotional pair. Instead, Apple includes a pair of wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, a charging cable, and a power adapter.

But don’t let that disappointment linger too long. The iPhone XS Max works beautifully with every AirPods model ever made. Plus, there are smart ways to snag a bundle deal and save some serious cash. This guide will walk you through exactly what ships in the box, why Apple made this choice, and how to get the best audio experience with your device.

Key Takeaways

• No AirPods Included: The iPhone XS Max ships with wired EarPods only, not AirPods.
• What’s in the Box: Expect a Lightning cable, 5W USB power adapter, and EarPods with Lightning Connector.
• Why No AirPods: Apple’s pricing strategy keeps the iPhone box focused on essentials, treating AirPods as a premium add-on.
• Separate Purchase Required: AirPods must be bought separately, typically ranging from $129 to $249 depending on the model.
• Compatibility is Excellent: The iPhone XS Max works seamlessly with all AirPods generations, including Pro and Max versions.
• Smart Bundle Savings: Retailers like Best Buy and carriers like Verizon often offer AirPods bundles with iPhone purchases.
• Wired Alternative Works: The included EarPods provide a free, ready-to-use listening experience without any extra cost.

The Straight Answer: What’s Actually in Your iPhone XS Max Box

Let’s cut right to the chase. When you open that beautiful retail box, here’s what you’ll find inside, and what you won’t.

The Included Accessories

Apple kept things simple with the iPhone XS Max packaging. You’ll receive three core items besides the phone itself:

• EarPods with Lightning Connector: These are wired earbuds that plug directly into your phone’s Lightning port. They deliver decent sound quality and include a built-in remote for volume, calls, and music control.
• Lightning to USB Cable: This is your standard charging cable. It connects your phone to a power source or computer.
• 5W USB Power Adapter: A compact wall charger that plugs into any standard outlet. Note that this is a basic 5W charger, not the fast-charging 20W adapter Apple now includes with newer iPhones.

You’ll also find the usual paperwork: a Quick Start guide, Apple logo stickers, and a SIM ejector tool if you purchased an unlocked model.

What’s Missing from the Box

Here’s where many buyers feel a bit let down. The following items are not included with your iPhone XS Max purchase:

• AirPods (any generation): No wireless earbuds of any kind.
• Headphone Jack Adapter: Unlike older iPhones, the XS Max doesn’t include a 3.5mm adapter because there’s no headphone jack to use it with.
• Fast Charger: Only the standard 5W adapter is included.
• Protective Case: You bring your own protection.

Think of it like buying a new car. The base model comes with the essentials to get you moving, but premium features like leather seats or a sunroof cost extra. Apple treats AirPods as a separate premium purchase.

Why Apple Doesn’t Include AirPods with the iPhone XS Max

This question pops up constantly in forums and Reddit threads. Why would Apple, the company that makes AirPods, not throw in a pair with a $1,099 flagship phone? The answer involves smart business strategy and product positioning.

The Pricing Psychology

Apple positions the iPhone XS Max as a premium device. Adding AirPods to the box would raise the manufacturing cost significantly. A pair of standard AirPods retails for $129. If Apple absorbed that cost, they’d either raise the phone’s price or accept thinner profit margins.

Instead, Apple keeps the base price competitive while offering AirPods as an upsell. This way, customers who want wireless earbuds can add them to their cart, boosting Apple’s average revenue per user.

The Modular Approach

Think of Apple’s product lineup like building blocks. You buy the iPhone, then add accessories as needed. This modular approach lets you customize your experience without paying for things you don’t want. Maybe you prefer Beats headphones. Maybe you already own AirPods from a previous purchase. Apple respects that choice by not forcing accessories on you.

The AirPods as Standalone Product

AirPods have become a cultural phenomenon. By keeping them as a separate product, Apple maintains their status as a desirable, premium item. If every iPhone came with AirPods, the perceived value of AirPods themselves would drop. It’s a brilliant marketing move that benefits both product lines.

The Complete History of iPhone Box Contents

Understanding where Apple has been helps explain where they are now. Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane.

The Headphone Jack Era (2007-2016)

From the original iPhone through the iPhone 6s, Apple included traditional EarPods with a 3.5mm headphone jack. Every new iPhone came with these wired earbuds, plus a wall charger and Lightning or 30-pin cable depending on the era.

The Transition Period (iPhone 7-2017)

When Apple removed the headphone jack with the iPhone 7, they included EarPods with a Lightning connector and a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter. This helped users transition to the new world of wireless and Lightning-based audio.

The Modern Minimalist Approach (2018-Present)

Starting with the iPhone XS generation, Apple dropped the headphone jack adapter from the box. The reasoning was that by 2018, most users had already adapted to Lightning headphones or wireless options. The included EarPods with Lightning Connector became the only audio accessory in the box.

Recent Trends (2020 and Beyond)

Apple has continued this trend with the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 series. None of these phones include AirPods in the box. In fact, Apple removed the charger and EarPods entirely from the iPhone 12 onward, citing environmental reasons. The iPhone XS Max still includes EarPods, making it one of the last iPhones to offer any headphones at all.

AirPods Compatibility with the iPhone XS Max

Here’s the good news: the iPhone XS Max plays incredibly well with every AirPods model. If you decide to buy AirPods separately, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience.

Supported AirPods Models

The iPhone XS Max works with all AirPods versions released to date:

• AirPods (1st Generation): Released December 2016, these work perfectly with the XS Max through standard Bluetooth pairing.
• AirPods (2nd Generation): Released March 2019, these offer hands-free “Hey Siri” and faster device switching.
• AirPods Pro: Released October 2019, these add active noise cancellation and a customizable fit.
• AirPods Pro 2: Released September 2022, these offer improved noise cancellation and adaptive transparency mode.
• AirPods (3rd Generation): Released October 2021, these feature spatial audio and a redesigned look.
• AirPods Max: Released December 2020, these are over-ear premium headphones with high-fidelity sound.

Setup Made Simple

Pairing AirPods with your iPhone XS Max is almost magical. Here’s the quick version:

1. Make sure your iPhone has Bluetooth turned on (it’s usually on by default).
2. Open the AirPods case near your iPhone.
3. A setup animation appears on your screen.
4. Tap “Connect” and follow the prompts.
5. You’re done! The AirPods now connect automatically whenever they’re near your phone.

This process takes about 30 seconds. No digging through settings menus required.

Features That Work on the iPhone XS Max

You won’t miss out on modern AirPods features just because you have an older phone. The iPhone XS Max supports:

• Spatial Audio: Immersive surround sound for movies and music (requires AirPods Pro, AirPods 3, or AirPods Max).
• Adaptive EQ: Automatic sound tuning based on your ear shape.
• Automatic Device Switching: Move between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac without manually reconnecting.
• “Hey Siri” Voice Commands: Hands-free access to Apple’s assistant.
• Battery Status Widgets: Check your AirPods battery right from your home screen.

One feature you won’t get is the newest adaptive audio processing in the AirPods Pro 2, which requires iOS 17 and newer. The iPhone XS Max can only update to iOS 16, so some cutting-edge features remain out of reach.

Smart Ways to Get AirPods with Your iPhone XS Max

Since AirPods aren’t included for free, let’s explore the best ways to get them without breaking the bank. There are several strategies that savvy shoppers use to save money.

Carrier Bundle Deals

Mobile carriers frequently run promotions that bundle AirPods with new iPhone purchases. Here’s how it typically works:

• Verizon: Often offers free AirPods (sometimes AirPods 2, sometimes AirPods 3) with new line activations or trade-ins.
• AT&T: Provides bill credits when you add a new line and purchase an iPhone on an installment plan.
• T-Mobile: Runs similar trade-in promotions that can net you free AirPods or significant discounts.

These deals usually require you to commit to a specific plan or trade in an older device. Always read the fine print before signing up.

Retailer Promotions

Big-box retailers and electronics stores frequently offer bundle savings:

• Best Buy: Often includes free AirPods with iPhone purchases, especially during holiday sales events.
• Target: Runs periodic promotions with gift cards that can be applied to AirPods purchases.
• Amazon: Doesn’t typically bundle, but offers competitive AirPods pricing outside of Apple’s store.
• Apple Store: Occasionally offers promotional AirPods pricing with education discounts or during back-to-school season.

Refurbished and Used Options

If budget is a primary concern, consider these alternatives:

• Apple Certified Refurbished: Apple sells refurbished AirPods with full warranties at 15-20% discounts.
• Trusted Resellers: Sites like BackMarket and Swappa sell verified used AirPods at significant markdowns.
• Previous Generation Models: AirPods 2 still offer excellent sound quality and work perfectly with the iPhone XS Max at a lower price than newer models.

Buying refurbished can save you $30-$50 while still getting a product that feels and functions like new.

Student and Education Discounts

If you’re a college student, teacher, or parent buying for a student, Apple’s education store offers AirPods discounts during certain times of year. The back-to-school season typically brings free AirPods with qualifying Mac or iPad purchases, though iPhone promotions through education channels are rarer.

Making the Most of Your iPhone XS Max Audio Experience

Whether you buy AirPods or stick with the included EarPods, your iPhone XS Max can deliver an incredible audio experience. Let’s explore your options.

Optimizing the Included EarPods

Don’t dismiss the EarPods that come in the box. They actually offer several advantages:

• Zero Latency: Wired headphones have no audio delay, perfect for gaming and video editing.
• No Battery Anxiety: They never need charging.
• Reliable Connection: No Bluetooth dropouts or pairing issues.
• Built-in Controls: The inline remote handles volume, playback, and calls effortlessly.
• Cost-Effective: They’re free with your phone purchase.

To get the best sound from these EarPods, try adjusting your iPhone’s audio settings. Go to Settings > Music > EQ and experiment with different presets like “Bass Booster” or “Treble Reducer” to find your preferred sound profile.

Exploring Headphone Alternatives

The iPhone XS Max supports a wide range of audio devices beyond AirPods:

• Beats Headphones: Apple-owned Beats offers many wireless options that pair instantly with the iPhone XS Max, including the Beats Fit Pro and Beats Solo 3.
• Third-Party Wireless Earbuds: Brands like Sony, Bose, Jabra, and Samsung make excellent Bluetooth earbuds that work with any iPhone.
• Lightning Headphones: Several companies make wired headphones with Lightning connectors if you prefer wired audio.
• Bluetooth Speakers: For home listening, any Bluetooth speaker pairs easily with your iPhone XS Max.

Audio Quality Settings on iPhone XS Max

Your iPhone offers several hidden audio features that enhance any headphone experience:

• Spatial Audio: Enable this in Settings > Music for an immersive listening experience with supported headphones.
• Lossless Audio: Available through Apple Music, this delivers studio-quality sound if you have compatible headphones.
• Headphone Accommodations: Found in Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual, this lets you customize audio for your specific hearing needs.
• Sound Check: Normalizes volume levels across different songs and apps for a more consistent listening experience.

Battery Tips for Wireless Listening

If you do decide to buy AirPods or other wireless earbuds, here are some battery-saving tips:

• Keep your AirPods in their case when not in use.
• Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.
• Don’t let the battery fully drain regularly; partial charges are better for lithium-ion batteries.
• Update your AirPods firmware through your iPhone for optimal performance.

Common Misconceptions About iPhone XS Max Accessories

Plenty of myths float around about what comes with the iPhone XS Max. Let’s bust the most common ones.

Myth: “Apple Used to Include AirPods with iPhones”

Fact: Apple has never included AirPods with any iPhone model. AirPods have always been a separate purchase since their launch in December 2016. Even the iPhone 12 and later models that stopped including EarPods still don’t include AirPods.

Myth: “The iPhone XS Max Box Includes Wireless Charging for AirPods”

Fact: The iPhone XS Max itself supports wireless charging, but no AirPods or wireless charger come in the box. You’d need to purchase both separately.

Myth: “You Need AirPods to Use Siri with iPhone XS Max”

Fact: You can activate Siri hands-free on the iPhone XS Max just by saying “Hey Siri.” The included EarPods also have a remote that activates Siri when pressed. AirPods offer a more seamless experience but aren’t required.

Myth: “Buying AirPods from Apple Is Always Cheapest”

Fact: While Apple’s pricing is consistent, retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart often offer AirPods at lower prices, especially during sales events. Always compare prices before purchasing.

Myth: “AirPods Pro Work Better Than AirPods with iPhone XS Max”

Fact: All AirPods models work equally well with the iPhone XS Max. The Pro version offers noise cancellation, but you won’t miss out on core functionality with standard AirPods. Your choice should depend on your budget and feature needs, not compatibility concerns.

The Future of iPhone Accessories

Looking ahead, Apple continues to evolve its accessory strategy. Understanding these trends helps you make smart buying decisions.

The Environmental Push

Apple has publicly committed to reducing its environmental footprint. Removing accessories from iPhone boxes reduces electronic waste and shipping emissions. While this shift frustrates some consumers, Apple argues that most users already own compatible accessories and don’t need new ones.

The USB-C Transition

The iPhone XS Max uses a Lightning connector, but newer iPhones have moved to USB-C. If you upgrade from an XS Max to a newer model, you’ll need new cables. This transition may make bundled accessories less universal in the future.

Wireless as the New Standard

AirPods and other wireless audio devices continue gaining market share. Industry analysts predict that by 2025, over 70% of headphones sold will be wireless. Apple’s strategy of keeping AirPods separate aligns with this growing trend while maximizing their accessory revenue.

What This Means for You

If you’re buying an iPhone XS Max today, you’re getting one of the last iPhones that still includes any headphones at all. This makes the EarPods in the box a pleasant bonus rather than an expectation. If wireless audio matters to you, plan to budget for AirPods separately, ideally through a bundle deal or promotional offer.

The iPhone XS Max remains a powerful device with excellent audio capabilities, whether you use the included EarPods or upgrade to AirPods later. The choice is entirely yours, and either path delivers a satisfying listening experience.

Remember, the absence of AirPods in the box doesn’t diminish the iPhone XS Max’s value. It simply gives you the freedom to choose the audio solution that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Whether that’s sticking with the free wired EarPods, splurging on AirPods Pro, or exploring third-party options, your iPhone XS Max is ready to deliver impressive sound whenever you are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the iPhone XS Max come with AirPods in the box?

No, the iPhone XS Max does not include AirPods. Apple has never included AirPods with any iPhone model. The box contains wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, a USB charging cable, and a 5W power adapter.

What headphones come with the iPhone XS Max?

The iPhone XS Max includes wired EarPods with a Lightning Connector. These plug directly into the phone’s Lightning port and feature an inline remote for controlling music, volume, and calls. No wireless headphones of any kind are included.

Can I get free AirPods when buying an iPhone XS Max?

While Apple doesn’t bundle free AirPods, carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile often run promotions offering free or discounted AirPods with new iPhone purchases. Retailers like Best Buy also offer bundle deals, especially during holiday sales events. Check current promotions before purchasing.

Which AirPods work best with the iPhone XS Max?

All AirPods models work with the iPhone XS Max, including AirPods 1, 2, 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max. The best choice depends on your budget and needs. AirPods Pro offer noise cancellation and are great for travel, while standard AirPods provide excellent value for everyday use.

Is the iPhone XS Max still worth buying in 2024?

Yes, the iPhone XS Max remains a capable device with excellent performance, a great camera, and solid battery life. However, it can only update to iOS 16, so it won’t receive the newest features. For the best long-term value, consider newer iPhone models that support iOS 17 and beyond.

Why doesn’t Apple include AirPods with iPhones anymore?

Apple keeps AirPods as a separate premium product to maintain their market value and give customers flexibility. Including them would raise iPhone prices or reduce profit margins. Additionally, many users already own preferred headphones, making bundled accessories wasteful for some customers.