Apple is reportedly working on a proprietary high-fidelity audio format that will enable lossless Apple Music streaming on AirPods.
Apple says the AirPods cannot stream lossless Apple Music files "currently." However, leaker Jon Prosser claims that this could change with an update. The AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max use the lossy AAC format over Bluetooth to stream audio and have no way to stream lossless ALAC or FLAC files. First from AppleTrack reported, Jon Prosser shared that Apple could unveil a new audio format for improved lossless streaming. If true, the strategy seems to mimic Apple's approach with AirTag and Find My -- introduce third-party compatibility first, then release the proprietary option. Technically, it's impossible to transmit a truly lossless audio file over the AAC Bluetooth connection that Apple uses. Plus, the limitations of a USB-to-Lightning cable for the AirPods Max rule this out on that platform as well.
Apple Music Lossless will be available from June
Unless the protocol is changed, AirPlay 2 cannot be used for AirPods because Apple's earbuds and headphones don't have WiFi - and that can't be added through a firmware update. A new high-fidelity format would need to be implemented with Bluetooth 5.0 and AirPods. WWDC, which starts in June, seems a likely place for an announcement, should the report be correct. Prosser had already hinted at the possible update on Twitter, telling his followers to "wait for it" regarding lossless support for AirPods. Apple announced several new features for Apple Music in a press release. Not only lossless and hi-res audio is coming, but also Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio. The new features will appear on iOS 14.6, iPadOS 14.6, tvOS 14.6 or macOS 11.4 in June. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)
