Apple's April software update brings a significant audio upgrade to its premium AirPods Max headphones. This long-awaited update introduces 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio, dramatically enhancing the listening experience for compatible users. The update, delivered via iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sonoma 15.4, also promises enhanced personalized spatial audio with head tracking for a more immersive sound. However, this improved audio fidelity comes with some important caveats.Crucially, lossless audio support is exclusively available for the USB-C version of the AirPods Max, requiring a direct USB-C connection to the audio source. Owners of the older Lightning connector model will unfortunately miss out on this feature. The update also leaves some questions unanswered regarding microphone functionality and compatibility with non-Apple devices, potentially limiting its overall usefulness for certain users. This article delves into the details of this update, exploring both its benefits and limitations.
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Lossless Audio Arrives in April
Apple has officially announced that AirPods Max will receive lossless audio support via a firmware update coming in April. This update will bring 24-bit/48kHz lossless audio to the premium headphones, significantly improving audio quality for users.
The update will be delivered through iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sonoma 15.4. This ensures compatibility and seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem.
Along with lossless audio, users can also expect enhanced personalized spatial audio with head tracking. This will create a more immersive and realistic listening experience.
USB-C Connection is Key
It's important to note that this lossless audio feature is exclusively available for the USB-C version of the AirPods Max. The update will only work when the headphones are directly connected to a source via USB-C.
This means users with the older Lightning connector version will miss out on this improvement. This is a significant limitation, highlighting the importance of owning the updated model.
Apple is also selling a new $40 USB-C to 3.5mm cable specifically designed for the AirPods Max, suggesting that third-party cables may not be fully compatible.
Microphone Input and Compatibility
The update's impact on microphone input using a USB-C to USB-C cable remains unclear. Previous versions had limitations with microphone functionality through wired connections.
While the possibility of bidirectional audio exists with the USB-C connection, it is not explicitly confirmed by Apple. Users may only be able to listen to lossless audio, not record.
The possibility of using the AirPods Max with non-Apple devices, such as DAPs or turntables, using the 3.5mm cable is hinted at, but complete cross-device compatibility remains uncertain.
Conclusion: Is the Update Worth It?
The April firmware update for AirPods Max offers a significant upgrade in audio quality with lossless audio support. However, the exclusive availability for USB-C models and the uncertainty surrounding microphone functionality and non-Apple device compatibility are significant drawbacks.
For existing USB-C AirPods Max users, the upgrade provides a worthwhile enhancement to the listening experience. However, for owners of the older Lightning version, or those considering a purchase, these limitations must be taken into account.
Ultimately, the value proposition depends on individual priorities. High-fidelity audio enthusiasts with a USB-C AirPods Max will benefit greatly, while others might find the update less compelling.