Apple AirPods Max to Receive Game-Changing Update with Lossless Audio and Ultra-Low Latency

Apple is about to deliver an exciting surprise for AirPods Max owners. A new software update, set to roll out next month with iOS 18.4, promises to unlock major audio upgrades, including lossless audio and ultra-low latency support for users with the USB-C model. These advancements are sure to enhance the listening and gaming experience for many AirPods Max enthusiasts. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s New with the AirPods Max Update?

Apple’s upcoming software update will bring two key features to AirPods Max users:

Lossless Audio Support: AirPods Max will now support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio via the included USB-C cable. This means you’ll experience music as it was originally intended by the artist—an uncompressed, pure listening experience with rich detail and clarity. Lossless audio will also extend to Apple’s Personalized Spatial Audio, adding to the immersive nature of the sound.
Ultra-Low Latency for Gamers and Streamers: The update will introduce ultra-low latency audio, drastically reducing lag and syncing the audio experience to match the built-in speakers of Mac, iPad, and iPhone. This improvement is especially beneficial for gamers and livestreamers, as it ensures seamless and responsive gameplay or broadcasting without delays.

The new update will be part of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4, scheduled to roll out in April. However, these features will only be available for AirPods Max models equipped with USB-C—those with Lightning connectors will miss out.

Additionally, Apple is launching a new USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable, priced at $39, which will enable wired playback for AirPods Max. This feature was previously missing when the USB-C variant of the headphones launched last year.

What Undercode Says:

The upcoming AirPods Max update is a clear indication of Apple’s commitment to improving the user experience for its premium audio product. The of lossless audio will be a game-changer for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, offering a sound quality that was once limited to high-end audio gear and professional setups. The shift to 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio unlocks finer details in music that many users might not even have realized were missing. For Apple Music subscribers, this adds a whole new level of access, allowing them to hear their favorite tracks as they were originally recorded in the studio.

On the other hand, the addition of ultra-low latency audio addresses a significant gap for AirPods Max users who are into gaming or live streaming. With this new feature, Apple is ensuring that its headphones provide not just superb sound quality but also a level of responsiveness comparable to the built-in speakers of Apple’s other devices. Gamers who’ve been struggling with audio lag will find this update particularly welcome, as it allows for a smoother and more immersive experience. Livestreamers will also appreciate the improved audio synchronization, making their broadcasts feel more polished and professional.

However, the exclusivity of this update to AirPods Max with USB-C may be seen as a limitation for some. If you own a Lightning version of the AirPods Max, you’ll be left out of these key improvements. Apple has long been pushing USB-C across its product line, and this move further solidifies their stance on the universal port. For those with older Lightning models, the new USB-C to 3.5mm cable offers a partial solution, but it’s worth noting that this is a separate purchase at an additional cost.

Fact Checker Results:

Lossless Audio: The inclusion of 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio on AirPods Max via USB-C is confirmed. Lossless audio is available with Apple Music, and it does improve the overall listening experience with increased fidelity and clarity.
Ultra-Low Latency: The update’s ultra-low latency audio feature for gaming and streaming is indeed expected to improve lag times, providing smoother audio syncing comparable to Apple’s built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone.
USB-C Cable: The new USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable is officially launched by Apple, priced at $39, and supports wired playback on AirPods Max with USB-C.

The fact-checking confirms the accuracy of these updates and additions for AirPods Max users.

References:

Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/24/apple-announces-airpods-max-update-with-lossless-audio-support
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