Apple announced on Monday that it will introduce lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio support for AirPods Max headphones when using the included USB-C cable.
The update, set to roll out in April, aims to enhance audio quality for both music listeners and creators.
With the upcoming firmware update, AirPods Max will support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, preserving the original recording’s quality. The feature extends to Personalized Spatial Audio, offering a more immersive and uncompressed listening experience, according to Apple. Users will also have access to over 100 million songs in lossless audio through Apple Music.
Apple states that the ultra-low latency audio will benefit musicians and producers, allowing them to create and mix music with Personalized Spatial Audio and head tracking without compromising sound quality. Gamers, too, will experience reduced lag times for improved gameplay audio.
The update will be available as a free firmware upgrade alongside iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4. However, the new features will only be accessible on the USB-C version of AirPods Max, leaving out the Lightning model.
