We're very excited to bring the high-fidelity, lossless audio experience of Apple Music to our ears when the streaming music catalog is updated in June, and Apple has now confirmed that HomePod and HomePod mini will be compatible. Supports a higher audio standard. There was some uncertainty as to whether the speakers would actually be able to play the new lossless formats, but a new support document from Apple provides more details about the changes taking place and the devices that will support them. “HomePod and HomePod mini currently use AAC to ensure excellent audio quality,” Apple says. “Support for lossless technology will be available in a future software update. That way, you'll be able to stream your tracks at the highest resolution using Apple's own speakers, though it's not exactly clear when. Missing, however, are AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max, as previously reported: The AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and Beats wireless headphones use Apple's AAC Bluetooth codec to ensure excellent audio quality," Apple says. Bluetooth connections are not supported. lossless audio. "
More details
Apple distinguishes between high-res 24-bit/48kHz lossless and 24-bit/192kHz lossless in its document: not all tracks in Apple's catalog will be available at this high quality, and it's not known at what level HomePod will be supported and HomePod mini. Devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV 4K will natively support the 24-bit/48KHz level with their built-in hardware or standard connected headphones, Apple says, but not 24-bit/192KHz; you will need an external device. digital-to-analog converter to enjoy lossless Apple Music in the best quality on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. As for the AirPods Max, the headphones will apparently enable "exceptional audio quality" when using their Lightning audio cable to 3,5mm; however, "because of the cable's analog-to-digital conversion, playback will not be completely lossless" according to Apple. latest information. Also, you won't be able to redownload your iTunes purchases in an enhanced lossless format; You can replace these tracks with files synced from Apple Music and saved for offline listening, but only if you're currently an Apple Music subscriber.