When iOS 18.4 arrived earlier this week, AirPods Max users were likely the quickest to update after Apple announced last week that a new AirPods Max firmware update released at the same time would bring lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio to AirPods Max for the first time via the bundled USB-C cable.

Summary: Apple has delayed the AirPods Max’s new software update that would’ve brought the lossless audio feature. The new firmware is technically live on the company’s servers, but users aren’t able to get it yet on their devices.

That took a while, but it's finally real: Apple's AirPods Max over-the-ear headphones now support lossless audio. Apple announced the upgrade in late March, and now the new firmware for the AirPods Max is out, adding support for lossless audio, as well as ultra-low latency audio, for AirPods Max.

Apple announced a wired lossless audio update for the USB-C model of the AirPods Max just the other day, and the update has just become available for install. The update in question (via MacRumors) is version 7E99 — so that's the one to watch out for in your settings menu to make sure you've got the update.

The AirPods Max (USB-C) will feature ultra-low latency support, which reduces the delay between sound production and when it is heard. This technology is crucial when timing is essential, such as live music performances, online gaming, telecommunications, and broadcast production.

Apple is bringing lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio to AirPods Max headphones in April when using the included USB-C cable.

To take advantage of lossless audio, AirPods Max owners will have to use the USB-C cable to connect to an iPhone, an iPad, or a Mac. The feature will be available as part of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 when the updates become available in April.