Along with the first builds of iOS 16 and the other upcoming operating systems unveiled at WWDC 2022, Apple recently made a new beta firmware available for the AirPods. Now something interesting has been discovered that also brings the AirPods Pro 2 into play.
In the meantime, a developer was able to confirm that the beta version of the AirPods Max supports a higher quality Bluetooth codec, which will at least improve the call quality of the Apple premium headphones. At the same time, the whole thing can be seen as a foretaste of the best features of the AirPods Pro 2. As the Twitter user George reported, he has enabled the LC3 codec for the AirPods Max via the beta firmware. Side note: The LC3 codec is the future low-power, high-quality Bluetooth codec that will soon be available for headphones. The Low Complexity Communication Codec - or LC3 for short - will be able to transmit at much lower bitrates without compromising the audio quality we currently see with the Bluetooth standard. In this case, as the Twitter user points out, the LC3 codec will improve audio calls so that they sound better. But the true potential of this technology will only be realized with Bluetooth 5.2 and a new generation of AirPods hardware.
AirPods Pro 2 support low-energy audio technology
While the LC3 codec will improve audio calls, efficiency and stability of Bluetooth devices, to take full advantage of this standard, Bluetooth 5.2 is required, which AirPods currently do not have. However, rumors suggest that this is about to change. The next generation of AirPods Pro - codenamed B698 - with the next version of the H1 chip, Apple's own audio processor, will be able to handle this technology. In addition, hints have already been discovered in the iOS 16 code that the LC3 codec and low-energy audio support will be included. As for LE audio support, it is worth noting that a senior Apple engineer is heavily involved in this new standard. With Bluetooth 5.2 and LC3 support, Apple will be able to eliminate the desynchronization of AirPods on the user's ear and improve battery life thanks to the power-saving standard.
Lossless Bluetooth: More AirPods Rumors
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the new AirPods Pro 2 will continue to feature a Lightning charger. Rumors also point to a new form factor and health and fitness tracking features, as Apple itself has hinted that the AirPods could one day complement the Apple Watch's health tracking capabilities by providing additional data points. Combining all these technologies should likely provide a better music experience. However, it remains unclear whether Apple will introduce the long-rumored "Lossless Bluetooth" support, which other companies like Qualcomm and Sony are reportedly working on. Whatever the case, the AirPods Pro 2 are expected to be unveiled this fall, and we'll know by then. (Photo by Unsplash / Matt Birchler)
