Does Iphone Xs Max Comes with Airpods

The iPhone XS Max does NOT come with AirPods in the box. Apple only includes EarPods with a Lightning connector, a USB power adapter, and a Lightning to USB cable. If you want AirPods, you need to purchase them separately, either at the time of your iPhone XS Max purchase or anytime afterward from Apple or authorized retailers.

Imagine unboxing your shiny new iPhone XS Max, ripping through that satisfying plastic wrap, and lifting the lid with all the excitement of a kid on Christmas morning. You dig through the sleek packaging, expecting to find a pair of those magical wireless AirPods everyone’s been talking about. But instead, you pull out a pair of wired earbuds with a Lightning connector. No AirPods. Disappointing, right? You’re definitely not alone in this surprise.

This is one of the most common questions iPhone shoppers ask, especially those buying the iPhone XS Max. The confusion is totally understandable. Apple makes AirPods, and they make the iPhone XS Max, so wouldn’t it make sense to bundle them together? In a perfect world, maybe. But in Apple’s world, the answer is a clear and consistent no. The iPhone XS Max does not come with AirPods, and it never has. Let me explain exactly what’s in the box, why this myth keeps circulating, and what your options are if you really want AirPods to go with your phone.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover what Apple actually includes with the iPhone XS Max, the history behind Apple’s accessory choices, how the AirPods myth became so widespread, and practical tips for getting AirPods if you want them. Think of this as your one-stop resource for clearing up the confusion once and for all.

Key Takeaways

• No AirPods Included: The iPhone XS Max ships with wired EarPods, not AirPods, and never has included AirPods as a standard accessory.
• What’s Actually in the Box: Apple includes EarPods with Lightning connector, a USB power adapter, a Lightning to USB cable, and documentation.
• Why the Confusion Exists: Marketing hype, bundle deals, and carrier promotions have caused many shoppers to assume AirPods come free with iPhones.
• Apple Has Never Bundled AirPods Free: No iPhone model, including the XS Max, has ever shipped with AirPods as a default accessory in the box.
• How to Get AirPods With Your iPhone: You can buy them separately, look for promotional bundles from retailers or carriers, or consider trade-in deals from Apple.
• AirPods Cost Separately: AirPods are sold independently starting at around $129 for the basic model, with Pro and Max versions costing significantly more.
• The iPhone XS Max Still Works Great: Despite its age, the iPhone XS Max fully supports AirPods and offers excellent wireless audio performance.

What Actually Comes in the iPhone XS Max Box?

Let’s start with the basics. When you purchase a brand-new iPhone XS Max directly from Apple or an authorized retailer, here’s exactly what you’ll find inside that minimalist white box. Apple has always been known for clean, simple packaging, and the iPhone XS Max is no exception.

The iPhone XS Max Itself

Obviously, the star of the show is the iPhone XS Max itself. This beast of a phone features a massive 6.5-inch Super Retina display, which was the largest iPhone screen at the time of its release in September 2018. It comes in three storage options: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The color choices include Space Gray, Silver, and Gold. But we’re not here to talk about the phone itself; we’re focused on what else comes with it.

EarPods with Lightning Connector

This is where many people get confused. The iPhone XS Max does come with earbuds, but they’re the wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, not the wireless AirPods. These EarPods look similar to the older models but plug directly into the iPhone’s Lightning port instead of the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. They deliver decent sound quality and include a built-in remote for controlling music, adjusting volume, and answering calls.

Think of EarPods as the reliable old friend who’s always there when you need them. They don’t need charging, they’re hard to lose, and they work the moment you plug them in. AirPods, on the other hand, are like the fancy new acquaintance who requires a bit more attention and care but offers more freedom and convenience.

USB Power Adapter

Apple includes a standard USB power adapter for charging your iPhone XS Max. This is the small brick that plugs into your wall outlet. It’s a 5W adapter, which is fine for overnight charging but not the fastest option available. If you want faster charging, you’d need to purchase a more powerful adapter separately.

Lightning to USB Cable

You’ll also find a Lightning to USB cable in the box. This cable connects your iPhone XS Max to the power adapter for charging or to your computer for syncing data. The cable is about one meter long, which is typical for Apple products.

Documentation

Finally, Apple throws in the usual paperwork: a quick start guide, warranty information, and the Apple logo stickers everyone loves to slap on their laptop. There’s no hidden AirPods compartment or surprise accessory tucked away in the documentation sleeve.

Did You Know? Apple removed the headphone jack adapter starting with the iPhone XS series. Earlier iPhones, like the iPhone 7 through iPhone X, included a Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter in the box. So the iPhone XS Max doesn’t even come with that little dongle anymore.

Why Doesn’t the iPhone XS Max Come with AirPods?

Now that we know what’s in the box, let’s tackle the bigger question: why doesn’t Apple throw in AirPods? There are several reasons, and understanding them helps explain Apple’s overall strategy.

Cost and Pricing Strategy

The most obvious reason is cost. AirPods, even the basic second-generation model, retail for around $129. If Apple included them with every iPhone XS Max, the price of the phone would have to increase significantly, or Apple would absorb the cost and reduce their profit margins. Remember, the iPhone XS Max started at $1,099 for the 64GB model. It was already one of the most expensive smartphones on the market at launch. Adding AirPods would have pushed it into even more premium territory.

Apple is a business, and like any business, they need to make money. By selling AirPods separately, they create an additional revenue stream. In fact, Apple’s wearables, home, and accessories segment, which includes AirPods, generated over $12 billion in revenue in 2019 alone. That’s a massive business that depends on selling these products separately.

Encouraging Accessory Purchases

Apple has built an entire ecosystem of accessories around the iPhone. From AirPods to Apple Watch to MagSafe chargers, each accessory is designed to enhance your iPhone experience. By not including AirPods, Apple encourages customers to make additional purchases, building out their ecosystem over time. It’s a strategy that has worked incredibly well, making Apple one of the most profitable companies in the world.

Diverse Customer Preferences

Not everyone wants AirPods. Some customers prefer wired headphones for better audio quality or because they don’t want to charge yet another device. Others might already own a pair of wireless earbuds from another brand. By not bundling AirPods, Apple lets customers choose the audio solution that works best for them.

Premium Product Positioning

The iPhone XS Max is positioned as a premium device, and Apple wants to maintain that image. Bundling AirPods might make the package seem more generous, but it could also dilute the perceived value of the AirPods themselves. By keeping them separate, Apple maintains the premium feel of both products.

The History Behind the AirPods Confusion

If you’re confused about whether AirPods come with the iPhone XS Max, you’re definitely not alone. The confusion has a long history, and several factors have contributed to this widespread myth.

Apple’s Marketing and Branding

Apple is masterful at creating buzz around their products. When AirPods first launched in December 2016, they were marketed as the perfect companion to the iPhone. The ads showed people seamlessly switching between iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, creating an image of a unified ecosystem. This marketing genius led many consumers to assume that AirPods would be a standard iPhone accessory, especially with newer models.

The visual branding also plays a role. Apple’s website often shows iPhones alongside AirPods, giving the impression that they’re a package deal. But in reality, they’re separate products that happen to work beautifully together.

Promotional Bundles and Carrier Deals

Throughout the years, various carriers and retailers have offered promotional bundles that include AirPods with the purchase of a new iPhone. These deals are time-limited and come with specific conditions, but they’ve contributed to the myth that AirPods come free with every iPhone. If you bought your iPhone XS Max during one of these promotions, you might have gotten AirPods as a bonus. But these are special deals, not standard inclusions.

Word of Mouth and Online Forums

The internet is full of misinformation, and the AirPods question is no exception. People frequently ask whether AirPods come with their new iPhones, and incorrect answers spread like wildfire. If someone hears from a friend that “yeah, the new iPhone comes with AirPods,” they might repeat that information without verifying it.

Did You Know? A 2020 survey by SellCell found that 44% of iPhone users were unaware of which accessories came in the box with their device. That’s nearly half of all iPhone users! It’s no wonder this confusion persists.

The Shift Toward Wireless

Apple has been pushing the world toward wireless audio since they removed the headphone jack from the iPhone 7 in 2016. This bold move was controversial at the time, but it paved the way for AirPods to become a cultural phenomenon. By eliminating the headphone jack, Apple created a need for wireless audio solutions, and AirPods were the answer. However, just because Apple removed the headphone jack doesn’t mean they started giving away AirPods for free.

How to Get AirPods With Your iPhone XS Max

So you’ve got your iPhone XS Max, and now you really want some AirPods to go with it. What are your options? Fortunately, there are several ways to make this happen, and some of them might save you some money.

Buy Them Directly from Apple

The most straightforward option is to purchase AirPods directly from Apple’s website or an Apple Store. You can choose from several models:

• AirPods (2nd generation): Around $129, these are the basic model with optional wireless charging case.
• AirPods (3rd generation): Around $169, featuring spatial audio and a new design.
• AirPods Pro: Around $249, with active noise cancellation and transparency mode.
• AirPods Max: Around $549, Apple’s premium over-ear headphones.

Buying directly from Apple ensures you get genuine products with full warranty coverage. You can also customize your AirPods with engraving for a personal touch.

Look for Retailer Promotions

Big retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart frequently offer discounts on AirPods, especially during holiday sales events. If you’re patient, you can often find AirPods at a significant discount compared to Apple’s retail price. Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit products.

Consider Trade-In Deals

Apple occasionally runs trade-in promotions where you can get credit toward AirPods when you trade in an older device. These deals change frequently, so it’s worth checking Apple’s website or visiting a store to see what’s currently available.

Explore Carrier Bundles

Mobile carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile sometimes offer AirPods as a bonus when you purchase a new iPhone on a specific plan. These promotions are usually tied to new lines or plan upgrades, so read the fine print carefully before committing.

Buy Refurbished or Used

If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying refurbished AirPods from Apple’s Certified Refurbished store or reputable third-party sellers. Refurbished AirPods come with a new battery and outer shell, offering like-new performance at a reduced price. Just make sure to buy from a trusted source to avoid scams.

Are AirPods Worth It With the iPhone XS Max?

Now for the big question: should you even bother getting AirPods for your iPhone XS Max? Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide.

The Benefits of AirPods with iPhone XS Max

The iPhone XS Max fully supports all AirPods models, and the integration is seamless. Here are some of the key benefits you’ll enjoy:

• Instant Pairing: AirPods connect to your iPhone XS Max the moment you open the case. No fiddling with Bluetooth settings required.
• Automatic Device Switching: If you have other Apple devices, your AirPods can automatically switch between them as you use them.
• Siri Integration: You can summon Siri hands-free by saying “Hey Siri” and control your music, calls, and more.
• High-Quality Audio: AirPods deliver excellent sound quality for music, podcasts, and calls.
• Active Noise Cancellation (Pro model): If you opt for AirPods Pro, you’ll get industry-leading noise cancellation that makes commuting or working in noisy environments much more pleasant.
• Spatial Audio (3rd gen and Pro): This feature creates an immersive, theater-like experience when watching movies or TV shows.

Think of AirPods as a natural extension of your iPhone XS Max. They’re like a remote control that just happens to play music. Once you experience the convenience, it’s hard to go back to wired earbuds.

Potential Drawbacks

Of course, AirPods aren’t perfect. Here are some things to consider before making the purchase:

• Battery Life: AirPods need to be charged regularly, and the batteries degrade over time. After a few years, you might notice shorter listening times.
• Easy to Lose: Their small size makes AirPods notoriously easy to misplace. Invest in a case or attach a tracker like AirTag to keep them safe.
• Price: AirPods aren’t cheap, especially the Pro and Max models. Make sure the investment makes sense for your budget.
• Fit Issues: Some people find AirPods uncomfortable or have trouble keeping them in their ears. The Pro model comes with different tip sizes to help with this.

Alternatives to AirPods

If AirPods don’t seem like the right fit, there are plenty of excellent alternatives. Brands like Sony, Bose, Samsung, and Jabra make fantastic wireless earbuds that work perfectly with the iPhone XS Max. You might even get better features, like longer battery life or better noise cancellation, at a comparable price point.

Common Misconceptions About iPhone Accessories

The AirPods question is just one of many misconceptions about what comes with iPhones. Let’s clear up a few more so you’re fully informed.

“All iPhones Come with a Charger”

This was true for a long time, but Apple stopped including chargers with iPhones starting with the iPhone 12 series. If you’re buying a newer iPhone, you’ll need to purchase a charger separately if you don’t already have one. The iPhone XS Max, however, does come with a charger in the box.

“You Need Apple Accessories for Your iPhone”

While Apple accessories are designed to work seamlessly with iPhones, third-party options are often just as good, if not better. You can save money by shopping around and finding accessories that meet your needs without the Apple premium.

“Newer iPhones Are Better for AirPods”

Not true! The iPhone XS Max works perfectly with all AirPods models. You don’t need to upgrade your iPhone to enjoy AirPods. The pairing process and features are essentially the same regardless of which iPhone you have, as long as it’s running a recent version of iOS.

“AirPods Only Work with iPhones”

AirPods work with any Bluetooth-enabled device, including Android phones, tablets, and computers. You just won’t get all the special features like automatic device switching and hands-free Siri. But if you have a mix of Apple and non-Apple devices, AirPods are still a solid choice.

Did You Know? Apple sold over 100 million AirPods in 2020, making them one of the best-selling headphones in the world. Their popularity has even spawned the term “AirPods culture,” with people sporting them everywhere from coffee shops to subway cars.

The Bottom Line: AirPods and iPhone XS Max

Let’s wrap this up with a clear, no-nonsense answer to the original question: does the iPhone XS Max come with AirPods? The answer is a definitive no. The iPhone XS Max comes with wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, a USB power adapter, a Lightning to USB cable, and documentation. That’s it. No AirPods. No wireless charging case. No hidden surprises.

This has been the case since the iPhone XS Max launched in 2018, and it remains true today, even if you’re buying a refurbished or used model. Apple has never bundled AirPods with any iPhone as a standard accessory, and there’s no indication that this will change anytime soon.

If you want AirPods to go with your iPhone XS Max, you’ll need to purchase them separately. But here’s the good news: the iPhone XS Max works beautifully with all AirPods models, from the basic second-generation AirPods to the premium AirPods Max. You’ll enjoy seamless pairing, excellent sound quality, and all the convenience that comes with Apple’s wireless ecosystem.

Before you make your purchase, think about your needs and budget. If you commute regularly or work in noisy environments, AirPods Pro might be worth the investment for their noise cancellation. If you’re more of a casual listener, the basic AirPods or AirPods 3 will serve you well. And if you want the absolute best audio quality and don’t mind wearing over-ear headphones, AirPods Max is the top-of-the-line choice.

Remember, the iPhone XS Max is still a fantastic phone, even years after its release. It has the processing power, display quality, and feature set to handle anything you throw at it, including the latest AirPods. So don’t feel pressured to upgrade your phone just to enjoy wireless audio. Pair your iPhone XS Max with the right AirPods, and you’ll have a combination that’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, the iPhone XS Max does not come with AirPods. Apple only includes wired EarPods with a Lightning connector, a USB power adapter, a Lightning to USB cable, and documentation in the box. If you want AirPods, you must purchase them separately from Apple or an authorized retailer.

What headphones come with the iPhone XS Max?

The iPhone XS Max comes with EarPods featuring a Lightning connector. These are wired earbuds that plug directly into the phone’s Lightning port. They include a built-in remote for controlling music, volume, and calls, but they are not wireless like AirPods.

Can I use AirPods with the iPhone XS Max?

Yes, the iPhone XS Max is fully compatible with all AirPods models, including AirPods 2nd generation, AirPods 3rd generation, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. Pairing is quick and easy through the standard Bluetooth connection process.

Why doesn’t Apple include AirPods with the iPhone XS Max?

Apple does not include AirPods with the iPhone XS Max to keep the phone’s price competitive, maintain separate product ecosystems, and allow customers to choose their preferred audio accessories. Selling AirPods separately also creates an additional revenue stream for Apple.

How much do AirPods cost if I buy them separately?

AirPods prices vary by model. AirPods 2nd generation start at around $129, AirPods 3rd generation at around $169, AirPods Pro at around $249, and AirPods Max at around $549. Prices may vary depending on the retailer and any current promotions.

Are there any deals that bundle AirPods with the iPhone XS Max?

While the iPhone XS Max is no longer sold new by Apple, some retailers and carriers occasionally offer bundles that include AirPods with the purchase of this phone. You may also find refurbished or used iPhone XS Max units that come with AirPods included. Check with retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, or your carrier for current deals.