When Apple announced Lossless Audio, a higher-quality tier in Apple Music, back in May, we were surprised to learn that the feature was not supported by the company’s own HomePod speakers. Apple later said this omission would be corrected in a future software update.
Sure enough, support for Lossless Audio appeared in the third beta of HomePod OS 15, the latest full-version software update for the HomePod and HomePod mini smart speakers. But in some later betas, and again when the OS rolled out officially to the public, support for the feature had vanished.
So let’s try that one again. The first beta version of HomePod OS 15.1 has now been launched and, according to 9to5Mac, the point update’s big draw is restored support for Lossless Audio, along with Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio.
Before you get too excited, it’s worth pointing out that Apple only lets selected developers test beta versions of the HomePod OS: a special invitation is required to try features ahead of launch. But this beta activity is a hint that we may yet get support for these advanced audio features in the public version of HomePod OS 15.1 when it becomes available – assuming Apple doesn’t change its mind again.
Find a bargain on Apple’s speakers with our guide to the best HomePod deals.
This article originally appeared on Macworld Sweden. Translation and additional reporting by David Price.