Apple's AirPods Max: A Big Audio Upgrade on the Way

Apple's AirPods Max headphones are getting a significant audio boost. A new software update is on the way. It will bring lossless audio and ultra-low latency to these high-end headphones. This update is expected to arrive in April 2025. It will only work with the USB-C version of the AirPods Max. It will only work when they are connected via a cable. The AirPods Max first hit the market in 2020. They used Bluetooth 5. 0 technology and came with a Lightning connector. This connector was for charging and optional wired playback. A USB-C version was released in late 2024. It allows for audio line-in playback. With the upcoming update, users will be able to enjoy over 100 million songs in lossless quality. This includes tracks from Apple Music and other platforms. The update will also benefit music creators, gamers, and livestreamers. The low-latency feature will match the performance of built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone devices.

One notable absence is Spotify. Spotify does not currently offer lossless audio. They have been working on it for years. Their plans were disrupted when Apple made lossless audio a free feature for Apple Music subscribers. Spotify plans to charge extra for lossless audio. They will bundle it with other perks like early concert ticket access. The timing of Spotify's lossless audio rollout remains uncertain. The update will be included in iOS 8. 4, iPadOS 18. 4, and macOS Sequoia 15. 4. These operating systems are set to release in April. The AirPods Max come with a hefty price tag of $549. They are available in five colors: blue, purple, orange, black, and tan. Apple Music subscription costs $10. 99 per month for an individual plan. A family plan, supporting up to six users, is $16. 99 per month.

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