In an exciting announcement today, Apple revealed that the AirPods Max will be receiving a significant firmware update next month. This update comes alongside the release of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS 15.4, and will introduce support for both lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio via a USB-C port.
For those unfamiliar with audio formats, it's essential to understand the difference between lossless and lossy compression. Audio files are often compressed to reduce file size, which can lead to some data loss. Common lossy compression formats include MP3 and Apple's own Advanced Audio Codec (AAC), both of which sacrifice some audio quality for smaller file sizes. In contrast, lossless compression formats, such as the Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC), maintain all of the original audio data intact.
With over 100 million songs in its catalog encoded in both AAC and ALAC formats, Apple aims to cater to a wide range of audio preferences. The introduction of lossless audio to the AirPods Max is expected to enhance the listening experience significantly.
In a post on X, Apple's marketing chief, Greg Joswiak, touted lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio as the "ultimate audio upgrades" for the AirPods Max, promising a "mind-blowing sound quality." However, these claims seem to contradict information provided in Apple's own support documentation.
According to Apple, the AAC format already delivers audio quality that is "virtually indistinguishable" from the original studio recordings. Furthermore, the company states that the difference between AAC and lossless audio is also "virtually indistinguishable." If this is the case, then categorizing lossless audio as an "ultimate upgrade" raises questions about the validity of Apple's marketing strategy.
While the introduction of ultra-low latency audio is a welcome addition, it is important to note that lower latency primarily enhances the synchronization between audio and visual elements, rather than directly improving sound quality. As a result, the significance of the lossless audio upgrade may not be as substantial as Joswiak suggests.
In summary, while the upcoming firmware update for the AirPods Max will introduce new features, the real-world impact of lossless audio may not be as transformative as Apple promotes. As the company itself acknowledges, the existing audio quality through AAC is already impressive, leading many to question the true value of this "ultimate upgrade."
For those considering a purchase, be sure to check out the AirPods Max Buyer's Guide for further details and insights. Buy AirPods Max now and experience the latest in audio technology.
