AirPods Max Get Lossless Audio & Low Latency

Apple Enhances AirPods Max with Lossless Audio and Ultra-Low Latency

On Monday, Apple revealed plans to introduce lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio capabilities to the AirPods Max headphones. These enhancements will be accessible when the headphones are connected using the provided USB-C cable.

Lossless Audio Quality

An impending software update will allow AirPods Max to reproduce 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio. This ensures the preservation of the fidelity present in the original audio recordings.

The benefits of lossless audio will also extend to Apple’s Personalized Spatial Audio feature. This combination aims to provide a more precise, uncompressed, and immersive listening experience, according to Apple.

Apple Music subscribers will gain access to over 100 million songs in lossless audio format.

Improved Audio Performance for Professionals

Apple states that the ultra-low latency audio feature will significantly improve the AirPods Max’s suitability for music production.

By utilizing the USB-C connection, musicians will be able to leverage Personalized Spatial Audio and head tracking during the creation and mixing processes. This allows for recording and mixing without compromising audio quality.

Benefits for Gamers

The implementation of ultra-low latency audio will also prove advantageous for gamers. Reduced lag times will contribute to a more responsive and immersive gaming experience with the AirPods Max.

Availability

Both lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio will be delivered through a complimentary firmware update. This update is scheduled for release in April alongside iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4.

It’s important to note that these new features will be exclusive to the AirPods Max model equipped with a USB-C port. The original Lightning version of the headphones will not support these enhancements.