Apple is set to enhance the AirPods Max with the addition of lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio in the upcoming iOS 18.4 update, expected to be released in April. This announcement is part of a broader initiative to provide a superior listening experience for users. With the new firmware, AirPods Max will support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, allowing listeners to enjoy music as it was intended by the artists.
This feature extends to Personalized Spatial Audio, offering an uncompressed and immersive audio experience. Subscribers to Apple Music will have access to over 100 million songs in lossless quality, significantly enhancing their music experiences. Beyond casual listening, these updates also benefit music professionals.
AirPods Max will integrate smoothly into workflows on Logic Pro and other music creation applications. When connected via USB-C, they will be unique in allowing artists to both create and mix music in Personalized Spatial Audio while utilizing head tracking. This ensures high-resolution audio quality without latency, facilitating a seamless recording and mixing process.
Since their introduction in December 2020 and their last update in September 2024, AirPods Max have seen four years in Apple’s lineup. While new models are not released frequently, this software update is expected to be a significant enhancement for fans of these over-ear noise-canceling headphones. The lossless audio and low-latency support will be included in the iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 updates, and will be available as a free firmware upgrade for compatible AirPods Max models equipped with USB-C.
In conjunction with this, Apple has also launched a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable for $39, allowing users to easily connect their AirPods Max to various audio sources.
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