Apple has announced a significant update for its Over-Ear Airpods Max headphones, which will introduce support for high loyalty lossless audio reproduction. The update, scheduled for April, will coincide with the release of iOS 18.4, iPados 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4. With the introduction of the new firmware, the AirPods Max will be able to reproduce 24-bit/48 kHz lossless audio through the USB-C connection. This feature, previously absent also in the model with Lightning connector due to a signal conversion, will allow users to enjoy a listening experience that preserves the integrity of the original recordings. Apple underlines that the lossless support will also extend to personalized space audio.
According to the company, the update will offer advantages both to end users and to professionals in the music sector. Music fans will be able to appreciate the highest audio quality in music, films and games. Music creators, on the other hand, will benefit from significant improvements in all production phases, from composition to mixing. In addition to the audio Lossless quality, Apple has highlighted a further aspect of the update: ultra-low latency. This feature will make the AirPods Max most suitable for use in contexts such as musical production and gaming, where reactivity is fundamental. For lossless audio reproduction, users will be able to use a USB-C cable in USB-C, such as the one included in the packaging of the latest model sold. Apple has also launched a new 3.5 mm-to-jack audio cable, characterized by the same intertwined design as the most recent cables as the company.