Overview

• Apple announced a free firmware update in April 2025 that will bring lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio to AirPods Max with USB-C.
• Lossless audio will support 24-bit, 48 kHz playback via a wired USB-C connection, enabling high-fidelity sound for over 100 million Apple Music tracks.
• Ultra-low latency audio will improve real-time feedback for music creators, gamers, and livestreamers, offering performance comparable to built-in speakers on Apple devices.
• These features will be exclusive to the USB-C version of AirPods Max, with no support for the older Lightning model.
• Apple has also introduced a $39 USB-C to 3.5mm cable, enabling wired playback with analog audio sources like in-flight entertainment systems.