Apple has shared a support document confirming that HomePod and HomePod mini will get lossless audio support for Apple Music in a future software update, and the document also reveals other details.
First of all, the document indicates that the Apple TV 4K "currently does not support Hi-Res Lossless", but only with the standard Lossless level ranging from 16 bit to 44,1 kHz to 24 bit to 48 kHz and that is what will be available on Apple TV 4K at launch.
Apple's use of the word “currently” leaves the door open for a future software update with Hi-Res Lossless support for the device, but Apple hasn't confirmed this.
Second, the document states that Apple Music "will not be completely lossless" when played using wired AirPods Max:
The Lightning to 3,5mm Audio Cable was designed to allow AirPods Max to connect to analog sources for movies and music. AirPods Max can be connected to devices that play Lossless and Hi-Res Lossless recordings with exceptional sound quality. However, given the analog to digital conversion on the cable, playback will not be completely lossless.
Lossless audio refers to a form of compression that retains all of the original data, which can lead to a better listening experience, although the extent to which it is debated.
Apple's support document acknowledges that the difference between standard Apple Music audio and lossless audio will be “virtually indistinguishable”.
Lossless audio will be available in June to all Apple Music subscribers at no additional cost, on devices running iOS 14.6, iPadOS 14.6, macOS 11.4, and tvOS 14.6 or later, according to Apple.
Apple Music will have 20 million tracks available with lossless audio at launch, and Apple said 75 million tracks will be supported by the end of the year.
Apple Music also gets support for Spatial Audio (Spatial Audio) in June. This Dolby Atmos-based feature will provide an immersive three-dimensional audio experience that will make music sound like it's coming from all points.
Thousands of Apple Music tracks will support Spatial Audio at launch and will be added more regularly.
