Apple AirPods Pro 2 may be lossless compatible. If indeed Apple finds a solution for its wireless ALAC format.
Now that the third generation of AirPods offers the same features as the AirPods Pro, how is Apple going to make its next high-quality true wireless earbuds stand out? Seems to be by further improving the sound quality. According to 9to5Mac, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that next fall, Apple will release second-generation AirPods Pro with support for the Apple Lossless (ALAC) format. Unfortunately, there is no mention of other lossless formats, but this new generation will allow you to enjoy Apple Music (and all your local music in ALAC) without sacrificing quality.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 could be lossless compatible
Ming-Chi Kuo also expects the next AirPods Pro to offer a “new design.”And you might not have to worry too much if you ever lose your earbuds, as they can include a charging case capable of making sounds, just like AirTags. Then it is enough to “ring” the headphones so that they can be easily found by ear.
It’s hard to say whether or not Apple will support its lossless format, given the limitations inherent in the Bluetooth protocol. That being said, Cupertino VP of Acoustics Gary Gives recently told What Hi-Fi in an interview that his team “would like more bandwidth,” hinting at the possibility of “new technologies.” The Apple brand doesn’t necessarily extend or replace a wireless standard like Bluetooth, but it could develop a codec similar to aptX Lossless to make wireless ALAC viable.
If Apple finds a solution for its wireless ALAC format
As accurate as Ming-Chi Kuo is, it is still too early to rely on lossless support. The scheduled launch of these AirPods Pro 2 is not expected for many months and Apple could very well cancel or delay its plans. That being said, such an upgrade strategy would make a lot of sense. While the AirPods Pro still have some benefits like active noise cancellation and silicone ear tips, the latest standard AirPods are much closer in sound quality and features (with spatial audio) while still offering more battery life. On the other hand, the current AirPods Pro are only really good if you can find them at a good price.