I need is help with AirPods Max lightning version

Question

I need is help with AirPods Max lightning version

Hello,

I have an issue with my AirPods Max (Lightning version).

Current firmware version 6F25.

I’m experiencing two intermittent problems:

The headphones sometimes remain connected to my iPhone even when they are placed in the Smart Case.
I expect them to go into low-power mode and disconnect, but occasionally they stay connected.
While wearing the headphones, after slightly adjusting their position on my head, sound suddenly plays only from the left earcup.
When this happens:

- the Digital Crown does not respond
- the Noise Control (ANC) button also does not respond
- only the left earcup produces sound

Removing and re-putting the headphones sometimes helps, but the issue can reappear.

Has anyone experienced similar behavior with AirPods Max on firmware 6F25?

Are there any recommended troubleshooting steps, resets, or known hardware issues related to these symptoms?

Thank you for your help.

AirPods Max

Posted on Jan 8, 2026 4:24 AM

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Answer 1

Jan 27, 2026 10:40 PM in response to антонfromnull

Yes, I confirm to have the same, similar issue:

Airpod Max Lightning (sometimes) continues to be connected to iPhone after removal
Airpod Max Lightning (sometimes) plays Music only on left cup after adjustment or short term removal

In addition I observe the following problem:

Airpod Max Lightning (almost always) does not reconnect after being recharged.

In order to fix any of these issues, I need to factory reset and recharge the device. I have been to the official Apple store and an Apple dealer, and they are unable to help me, offering a replacement of the device that would cost more than buying a new Airpod Max.

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Answer 2

Jan 29, 2026 1:26 AM in response to антонfromnull

I do not disagree, but given that I am running out of options I am willing to give it a try anyway.

There is another esoteric advice I received from ChatGPT which I will be following up:

The #1 real cause: charging cable / power supply glitch

You told me earlier yours often break connection after charging.

Try this once:

Plug them into an original Apple 20W charger (or a MacBook USB-C port)
Charge 10 minutes
Then do the reset again

Some high-watt chargers/cables can trigger weird behavior (even if “should work”).

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Answer 3

Jan 28, 2026 6:59 AM in response to StefanZ67

Thank you for answering, I thought I was the only one with such a problem. But you know, I noted something strange. AirPods Max are no longer connected to the iPhone if they are in the Smart Case, and when I move the right earphone, the sound in the right cup does not disappear. Either I just move it gently or it's because I disconnected the right earphone and cleaned the contacts a little

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Answer 4

Jan 28, 2026 8:06 AM in response to антонfromnull

I do not think we are alone, I found this post on Reddit and I will try to follow the recommendations.

https://www.reddit.com/r/Airpodsmax/comments/195tzfw/airpods_max_suddenly_cannot_connect_to_your/

I am not sure if the 6F25 firmware is to blame, because if it was, the message boards would be full of it.

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Answer 5

Jan 28, 2026 9:38 AM in response to StefanZ67

In my opinion, what he described is not our case.

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