Apple Music Spatial Audio & Lossless Now on Android
Apple Music Expands Features to Android Users
A particular type of customer typically purchases an Android device while preferring Apple Music. However, the intersection of these preferences could be expanding. Apple recently announced a complimentary update for Apple Music subscribers during WWDC, introducing lossless audio streaming and spatial audio with Dolby Atmos compatibility.
These enhancements are now also available to Android users. Last year, Google discontinued its Google Play Music application, encouraging users to transition to YouTube Music.
Addressing Android User Concerns
Despite this push, some dedicated Android users remain dissatisfied with YouTube Music as a replacement. For audio enthusiasts, the recent Apple Music updates may prove compelling enough to consider a switch.
It’s important to note that not all Android devices currently provide support for Dolby Atmos.
Competition in High-Quality Audio Streaming
Apple Music is not alone in improving its audio quality. Amazon Music simultaneously announced support for lossless streaming and spatial audio with Atmos capabilities on the same day as Apple’s WWDC announcement.
Similar to Apple, Amazon is providing these improvements at no additional cost to its subscribers. Spotify intends to introduce a lossless audio feature, branded as HiFi, but it will be offered as a paid add-on, unlike the free upgrades from Apple Music and Amazon Music.
Currently, YouTube Music does not offer a comparable feature.
Streaming Service Subscriber Numbers
Spotify currently holds the leading position in the streaming market with 158 million paying subscribers. In contrast, Apple Music reported 60 million subscribers in June 2019, and Amazon Music had 55 million in January 2020.
However, neither Apple nor Amazon has released more recent subscriber figures. YouTube Music currently boasts at least 20 million paid users.
The Value of Lossless Audio
Even with standard consumer headphones, the distinction between a lossless FLAC file and a compressed mp3 is often discernible. For those who prioritize the highest possible audio fidelity, Tidal remains a dedicated option for master-quality audio.
