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Apple today shared a new support document confirming that the HomePod and HomePod mini will receive lossless audio support for Apple Music in a future software update. But the document also reveals interesting details about the Apple TV.
First, the document points out that the Apple TV 4K "does not currently support Hi-Res Lossless," noting that only the standard lossless level of 16-bit at 44.1 kHz to 24-bit at 48 kHz will be available on the Apple TV 4K at launch. Apple's use of the word "currently" leaves open the possibility of a future software update with Hi-Res Lossless support for the device. But beware: Apple has not confirmed an update at this time. Second—returning to the AirPods Max— explains the documentthat Apple Music will not be “fully lossless” when played via cable with the AirPods Max:
Apple Music Lossless and Dolby Atmos available from June
The Lightning to 3.5mm Audio Cable is designed to connect AirPods Max to analog sources for movie and music playback. AirPods Max can be connected to devices that play lossless and hi-res lossless recordings with exceptional audio quality. However, due to the analog-to-digital conversion in the cable, playback will not be completely lossless.
Lossless audio refers to a form of compression that preserves all original data, which can lead to an improved listening experience, although the extent is debatable. Apple's support document admits that the difference between Apple Music's standard audio and lossless audio will be "virtually indistinguishable." Lossless audio will be available to all Apple Music subscribers in June at no additional cost on devices running iOS 14.6, iPadOS 14.6, macOS 11.4, and tvOS 14.6 or later, according to Apple. Apple Music will offer 20 million songs with lossless audio at launch, and all 75 million songs are expected to be supported by the end of the year. (Photo by Unsplash / Li Lin)
