AirPods Max (v1 – Lightning) Wired Connection Issue (2026)

AirPods Max (v1 – Lightning) Wired Connection Issue (2026)

There is an existing Apple Support thread indicating that the only way to use AirPods Max (Lightning version) in wired mode is with Apple’s proprietary Lightning to 3.5 mm audio cable.

As of 2026, Apple no longer sells this cable, and it appears third-party cables do not support audio (only charging).

At the same time, Apple’s own documentation still states that wired playback on the Lightning version requires that specific cable. 

So this leaves a gap:

• The required cable is no longer sold by Apple
• There is no confirmed third-party alternative that works for audio
• Wired use is still an advertised/expected function of the product

Question:

Is there currently any supported way to use AirPods Max (Lightning version) in wired mode, or is the only practical option now to replace them with a newer model?