I don't see this happening because those brands undoubtedly have a much larger share of the high-end headphones market, whereas Apple seems to focus more on a smaller niche with even more disposable income. The fact that AirPods max can only be turned off by placing them in the case is such a weird design decision beyond the other absurdities of the product design. Hopefully Sony and others adopt the good ideas (like replaceable ear cups) while staying true to their customers.
You do know that these headphones will probably outsell the ones you mention 100:1 or more, right? :-)
Neither of those have user-replaceable batteries. They haven't for years.
And if you wanted to replace the batteries on the AirPods Max, it's only $79. If you can't afford it, don't buy them.
Is this a reflection on Apple's product strategy or that there are inequalities in the world?
Especially in a situation as ridiculous as this one, where the alternatives are better in nearly every aspect that matters (except the logo).
Not the $10,000 Louis Vuitton handbag or the $80,000 bottle of wine or the other myriad of consumables and products that are clearly priced by what people can pay, rather than purely for their utility value?
You're going to be offended by a lot in this timeline my friend.
You're not going to have too much difficulty finding people with a strong distaste for those markets as well.
Some people are going to buy a new pair of AirPods Max every year for $550. It hurts me deep down to know this fact, and it offends me on a level that's hard to describe with words.
But as long as other headphone manufacturers continue to sell quality and serviceable products, I won't be directly affected by it. I just hope Sony, Sennheiser, etc. don't follow Apple's lead. If they do, maybe I'll have to start looking at cheap Chinese brands.