Apple’s AirPods Max to Get Major Audio Upgrade Next Month

Cupertino, Calif. — Apple has announced that its AirPods Max headphones will receive a significant software update in April 2025, introducing lossless audio and ultra-low latency capabilities when used with the included USB-C cable.

This update will allow AirPods Max to unlock 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, preserving the quality of original recordings. Listeners will be able to experience more than 100 million songs in lossless audio through their Apple Music subscription.

“With this update, AirPods Max users can enjoy a more sonically accurate and immersive experience,” Apple stated in a press release. The ability to maintain audio fidelity is especially crucial for music creators, allowing them to record and mix tracks without compromising sound quality.

The ultra-low latency feature will also enhance the headphones’ functionality for gamers and live streamers, eliminating lag and creating a smoother experience during gameplay. This functionality is critical as it meets the standards set by native speakers on devices like the Mac, iPad, and iPhone.

To utilize these features, users must connect their AirPods Max to compatible devices, including Macs and iPads, using the provided USB-C cable. This makes AirPods Max the first headphones that allow musicians to create and mix in Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking, enhancing the creative workflow in music production.

“Using the USB-C cable, AirPods Max will enable musicians to seamlessly integrate these headphones into their professional production environments,” Apple said. “They will be able to leverage the benefits of lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio across their entire workflow.”

Apple’s AirPods Max, which was introduced in December 2020, has gone through its first major update since its launch. The new firmware, set to roll out with iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4, will be available at no extra cost for USB-C models, reinforcing the technological evolution of Apple’s audio products.

The AirPods Max, priced at $549, are offered in five color options: midnight, starlight, blue, purple, and orange. A separate USB-C to 3.5 mm cable, available for $39, allows users to connect the headphones to various audio sources, such as airplane audio ports.

Industry experts view this update as a strategic move for Apple to enhance the AirPods Max’s appeal to both average consumers and professional musicians alike, as the integration of high-fidelity audio capabilities is increasingly becoming a standard expectation in the audio market.