Apple has announced a software update for AirPods Max that will introduce lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio, scheduled for release in April 2025. With this update, the headphones will support 24-bit, 48kHz lossless audio, which will also extend to Apple’s Personalized Spatial Audio format.
AirPods Max Firmware Update
Now, to be clear: to maximize the sound quality, you’ll still need a wired connection – in this case, the included USB-C cable – to listen in 24-bit/48KHz mode. This is a common quality standard used in loseless audio, and Apple Music is one of the music streaming services that provides this to the users (as well as songs mixed in Spatial Audio).
Besides upping the sound quality, the update also introduces lower latency for audio, which Apple described as “on par with the native built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone.” Take this somewhat vague claim however you will. In any case, both new features will be available as a free firmware update in April with iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4.
Also, Apple has brought along a new USB-C to 3.5mm adapter for those who want to connect their AirPods Max to anything with a good old-fashioned 3.5mm headphone jack. This cable is going to cost you RM219 apiece, while the headphones itself will set you back for RM2,499.
Pokdepinion: Something to look forward to for AirPods Max users next month.
