AirPods lock-up and freeze (no sound) Firmware 5E135

Since the update 5E135 in May (2023) I’ve noticed this issue with my AirPods Max.

Issue can occur either via Bluetooth to non-Apple device (Nintendo Switch for me), or a wired connection w/ the official “Lightning to 3.5-mm Audio Cable“.

Putting on the device, after taking a break from recent usage, can sometimes result in the following symptoms:

No sound

No button functionality

No transparency/noise canceling mode

The device will still appear as connected.

If then connected to an iPad it can be “connected”, but even after using the “forget this device”, the issue persists.

I have not personally replicated this issue with another AirPods product or other non-Apple bluetooth device.

Until fixed, the current solution is to factory reset my AirPods Max, then reconnect to my preferred audio output connection.

Looking for feedback from others who can replicate the issue, including with different setups.