Apple to Add Lossless, Ultra-Low Latency Audio to AirPods Max

Apple has announced a software update that will bring support for lossless audio playback with ultra-low latency to AirPods Max headphones. The company assured that the presence of a USB Type-C cable in the kit will allow you to fully enjoy high-quality sound in movies, games, as well as when listening to and creating music.

Image Source: Apple

With the update, the headphones will be able to play 48 kHz/24-bit lossless audio, preserving the integrity of the original recordings and allowing listeners to experience music as it was created in the studio. The update also extends to spatial audio, which will sound even more immersive. Apple Music users will be able to listen to more than 100 million songs in lossless format.

The announced update will also allow music creators to use AirPods Max throughout their workflow in Logic Pro and other similar apps. Using a USB-C cable, the headphones can be used to create and mix spatial audio with head tracking.

The ability to play audio in lossless format will interest not only fans of high-quality sound and musicians, but also gamers. The headphones transmit sound with minimal delay, the value of which is no higher than the same indicator for Mac, iPad or iPhone speakers. The absence of delays will make the gaming process and online broadcasts smoother and more comfortable, Apple assures.

Lossless audio playback will be available with the release of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4 updates, and owners of AirPods Max with a USB Type-C connector will be able to appreciate the sound quality. Currently, such headphones can be purchased in Apple branded stores for $549. Apple will also launch sales of a cable with USB-C and 3.5 mm mini-Jack connectors for $39.