Next AirPods Pro tipped to get lossless audio support

Photo by Zana Latif on Unsplash

Whether wireless earbuds are ready for lossless audio support or not, Apple might be the first to try something out, at least according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Apple will reportedly launch the second-generation AirPods Pro with Apple Lossless (ALAC) audio support. But it isn't known if it'll support other lossless formats. It isn't clear how Apple will implement this, but Engadget speculates they might develop an aptX Lossless-style codec to make wireless ALAC possible. The launch is expected sometime in the fall, so plans might change.

Kuo said the AirPods Pro would also get a "new form factor design" and that it might get an AirTag-like feature for the charging case, allowing you to locate the missing accessory. 

Apple to delay Find My Network support for AirPods to later this fall

Apple is ready to roll out iOS 15, but one feature that won't be available is the Find My Network support for the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. The company didn't share the reason behind the delay. It joins other iOS features that won't be available at launch, including SharePlay, Legacy Contacts, and being able to add a driver's license or state ID to the Wallet app.

With the AirPods supporting Find My Network, it would be easier to locate your missing earbuds as it uses a nearby iPhone, iPad, or Mac to relay an approximate location of your earbuds securely and privately back to you.

Source: MacRumors

Spigen's new AirPods Pro case comes with space for an Apple AirTag

Small devices like the Apple AirPods Pro are what you'll need trackers like the AirTags for, but Apple hasn't built the AirTag's capabilities into these products yet. So, it's wise that accessory maker Spigen introduced a new case where you can place an AirTag with the buds. 

The Tag Armor Duo is part of Spigen's line that is meant to protect your AirPods. The three-piece construction covers your earbuds' case and comes with a front panel that clips on so you can put the tracker there. It has a rugged plastic shell, a cutout at the bottom for Lightning cable, and supports wireless charging. You can even clip it to a bag with the supplied carabiner. The Spigen Tag Armor Duo is available on Spigen's Amazon store for $26.99.

Source: 9to5toys

Netflix is reportedly testing out spatial audio support for AirPods Pro, AirPods Max

Netflix might be the next streaming service to support spatial audio. According to a story from iPhoneSoft, Netflix might launch the feature this spring using a "small catalogue." The report sites an unnamed Netflix employee that claims the company started testing out spatial audio in December 2020.

Spatial audio is a feature that utilizes head tracking technology to mimic an immersive surround sound experience on the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max. When it is enabled, it'll sound like audio is coming from around the user with the sound mapped to the device. Spatial audio is already supported by services like Apple TV+, HBO Max, and Disney+.

Source: AppleInsider