Apple Announces Lossless Audio and Ultra-Low Latency for USB-C AirPods Max

The free firmware update, arriving in April, will enhance audio quality and performance for music, gaming, and creative workflows, but only for the USB-C model.

Apple's USB-C AirPods Max will support 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio and ultra-low latency via a wired USB-C connection starting next month.
Lossless audio will enable high-fidelity playback of over 100 million songs on Apple Music, preserving the integrity of original recordings.
Ultra-low latency audio will improve real-time performance for gaming, livestreaming, and music production, comparable to built-in Apple device speakers.
These updates are exclusive to the USB-C AirPods Max, leaving the Lightning model without these new features.
A new $39 USB-C to 3.5mm cable, available now, restores wired playback functionality for analog audio sources like airplane entertainment systems.