Apple AirPods Max Gets Lossless Audio & Ultra-Low Latency


Next month, Apple is rolling out an exciting software update for its AirPods Max that will bring two game-changing features: lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio. This update promises to deliver an unmatched listening experience and boost the performance of AirPods Max, making them even better for music creators and everyday users alike. With the addition of a USB-C cable, AirPods Max users will now be able to enjoy top-tier audio quality whether they’re listening to music, watching movies, or playing games. For music creators, this update will offer significant improvements in songwriting, beat making, production, and mixing.

One of the most notable changes is the addition of 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, which ensures that the original quality of music is preserved. This means listeners can hear the music exactly as the artist intended, without any compromises. Apple Music subscribers, who have access to more than 100 million songs, will now be able to enjoy these tracks in stunning lossless audio quality, bringing a new level of clarity and richness to their favorite songs.

For music creators, the update takes things a step further. AirPods Max will now become the only headphones that allow musicians to both create and mix music in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking. This feature, combined with the new lossless and ultra-low latency audio, makes AirPods Max a powerful tool for professionals using music production apps like Logic Pro. The low latency ensures that music creators can record and mix seamlessly, without any delays or loss of quality.

Gamers and livestreamers will also appreciate the ultra-low latency audio, which dramatically reduces lag time. This makes for a smoother and more immersive experience, whether you’re deep into a game or streaming live. The new audio capabilities are on par with the built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone, ensuring that every sound is perfectly in sync with the action.

The update will be available for free in April, with iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4. AirPods Max with USB-C will be compatible with these updates, and the headphones will continue to be available for $549 in five colors: midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange. A USB-C to 3.5 mm audio cable will also be available for $39, allowing users to connect their AirPods Max to 3.5 mm audio sources, like airplane audio ports or car stereo systems.

Overall, this update brings significant enhancements to AirPods Max, making them even more versatile for both casual listeners and professionals in the music industry. Whether you’re a music lover, creator, gamer, or livestreamer, the new features will surely elevate your experience.