Apple is about to rectify a shortcoming that has been criticized since the launch of the AirPods Max USB-C: the absence of lossless wired listening. With the arrival of iOS 18.4 next month, users of these headphones will finally be able to enjoy an uncompressed audio connection via USB-C.
A long-awaited update
Until now, the latest generation of the AirPods Max headphones has only enabled users to listen to music wirelessly through Bluetooth, with no support for high-resolution codecs such as aptX and LDAC. The first version of the headphones, released in 2020, offered a wired solution via a 3.5mm mini-jack to Lightning cable, but without support for Hi-Res formats. As for the AirPods Max USB-C, launched in 2024, the company had totally abandoned this possibility, which prompted a great deal of criticism.
The press release published on March 24 confirms the iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4 firmware updates. This new firmware answers users’ requests, bringing support for uncompressed wired audio. Thanks to this update, the Apple AirPods Max USB-C headphones will be able to receive 24-bit/48kHz audio streams directly via a USB-C cable. The main benefit lies in the digital-to-analog conversion now integrated into headphones, guaranteeing an accurate, uncompressed sound reproduction.
USB-C audio also has the advantage of extremely low latency. This will be particularly useful for gaming or watching films, where a lag between the image and the sound can detract from the experience. Note that a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable is now available.
A solution for spatial audio
Apple also highlights the use of this wired connection for the production of three-dimensional sound. Thanks to USB-C, the AirPods Max USB-C become the only headphones on the market that allow you to mix high-resolution, latency-free spatial audio. This improvement could be of interest to audio professionals, particularly for the creation of immersive content.
With iOS 18.4, Apple brings an essential feature to the AirPods Max USB-C, finally enabling lossless wired listening. This update corrects a flaw widely criticized at the launch of headphones and improves its positioning with audiophiles and sound professionals alike. Users will be able to benefit from improved sound quality, reduced latency and enhanced compatibility with spatial audio.
