When the AirPods Max debuted in 2020, they were like a spaceship without a warp drive—impressive, but missing something crucial. That something? Lossless audio support. Fast forward to today, and with iOS 18.4 and a firmware update for the USB-C AirPods Max, Apple has finally plugged that gap. 😊
Here’s the deal: to unlock lossless audio, you’ll need the USB-C version of the AirPods Max, released last year, and iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, or macOS Sequoia 15.4. Connect your AirPods Max to your device via Bluetooth, plug them into a power source with the included cable, and wait about 30 minutes for the firmware update to download. Check the About section in the AirPods Max settings to confirm you’re on version 7E101.
But there’s a catch—lossless audio only works in wired mode. You’ll need to keep that USB-C cable handy. Apple also offers a USB-C-to-3.5mm cable for $39 if you prefer that route. Bluetooth just can’t handle high-res audio, folks.
Why the Original AirPods Max Miss Out
If you’re rocking the 2020 model, you’re out of luck. The Lightning port’s data throughput and DAC limitations mean no lossless for you. It’s not just Apple being stingy—it’s a hardware thing.
Does Lossless Audio Really Matter?
Short answer: it depends. For pop tracks, Dolby Atmos might suffice. But for metal, jazz, or acoustic genres? The difference is night and day. Instruments have more separation, vocals cut through cleaner, and the overall soundstage feels more immersive. It’s like upgrading from a bicycle to a Tesla—both get you there, but one’s a lot more fun.
Apple Music or Bust?
Apple Music offers 100 million lossless tracks, but you’re not locked into it. Services like Tidal or local files work too, as long as you’re wired up with that USB-C cable.
Final Thoughts
This update is a big deal, but it’s been a long time coming. At $549, the AirPods Max are a premium product, and this finally makes them feel complete. But with rumors of minimal future updates, they’re best suited for Apple loyalists with deep pockets. Happy listening! 🎧
