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Apple is reportedly working on a proprietary high-fidelity audio format that will enable lossless Apple Music streaming on AirPods.
Apple says that AirPods "currently" can't stream lossless Apple Music files. However, leaker Jon Prosser claims 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 ability to stream lossless ALAC or FLAC files. First reported by 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
Until the protocol is changed, AirPlay 2 cannot be used with AirPods, as Apple's earbuds and headphones don't have Wi-Fi—and that can't be added through a firmware update. A new high-fidelity format would have to be implemented with Bluetooth 5.0 and AirPods. WWDC, which begins in June, seems a likely location for an announcement, if the report is 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 are coming, but also Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio. The new features will be available in iOS 14.6, iPadOS 14.6, tvOS 14.6, or macOS 11.4 in June. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)
