Google Pixel Now Supports High-Resolution Bluetooth Audio — Here’s How to Use It
In the world of wireless audio, there are two groups of users: those who are content using wired connections and satisfied with the available sound quality, and those who strive for the perfect listening experience. For audio enthusiasts, the Android 17 update brings good news with the addition of Bluetooth LHDC codec support on Google’s Pixel phones. If you’re curious about this new option and what it means for your listening habits, read on.
What Is the Bluetooth LHDC Codec?
Low Latency High-Definition Audio Codec (LHDC) is not an entirely new wireless audio technology. First introduced by the HWA Alliance in September 2018, LHDC has been adopted in various audio products, from earbuds and headphones to home audio stations and smartphones. Although this feature is newly introduced on Google’s latest Pixel phones, the official announcement was actually made back in March.
In June 2024, the Japan Audio Society (JAS) certified LHDC as Hi-Res Audio Wireless, putting it on par with other high-quality codecs like aptX Adaptive and LDAC. LHDC can wirelessly transmit high-resolution audio, but how does it work?
LHDC Specifications and Performance
LHDC comes in several specification variations: LHDC-48K (16bit/48kHz ~400kbps), LHDC-96K (24bit/96kHz ~1000kbps), LHDC-192K (24bit/192kHz ~1000kbps), and LHDC-RAW (24bit/96kHz ~4600kbps). Although these numbers look impressive, audiophiles may notice that 1000 kbps is not enough to fully transmit a stereo 16-bit 44.1kHz track (1,411 kbps). Therefore, even though LHDC claims to support 192kHz audio, it does not necessarily mean the sound quality will always be better than other codecs like LDAC or aptX Lossless.
Pixel users can enjoy playback up to 96kHz, while other Android devices can reach 192kHz. However, the audio quality you receive depends not only on the codec’s maximum bitrate but also on the listening environment. For example, listening on a crowded train might result in lower audio quality compared to a quiet home, as the bitrate can adjust to avoid interference.
Requirements to Use LHDC
To take advantage of LHDC, you need headphones or earbuds that support this codec. While there are many options on the market, most come from China or other Asian markets. Examples of LHDC-supported products include the OnePlus Buds Pro series and Nothing Ear 2. Unfortunately, Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 do not support LHDC, even though your Pixel phone supports the codec after the Android 17 update.
Additionally, you need a phone capable of using the codec. Now, the latest Pixel phones support LHDC, but Galaxy and iPhone users still have to wait. To ensure your device is using LHDC, you need to access the Bluetooth Developer Settings menu on your phone. Here, you can see the available codecs for paired devices and configure other settings. However, for most users, Android typically manages the best connection automatically.
Benefits and Listening Experience with LHDC
Finally, you need media that makes optimal use of LHDC’s capabilities. Having a FLAC collection on your device is a good start, and there are many Hi-Res streaming options available today. Although 24-bit 96kHz may exceed the hearing ability of most people, many modern Android phones also support 192kHz playback. However, for Pixel owners, the likely limit remains at 96kHz LHDC audio playback.
It’s important to note that you don’t need a Hi-Res music collection to benefit from LHDC. CD-quality audio or even high-bitrate AAC or OGG can be nearly indistinguishable from the highest bitrate formats. Having a high-quality link between your source and output is very beneficial, even for lower-resolution music files, ensuring they are not compressed down to lower formats.
With the arrival of LHDC, Pixel users finally get a long-awaited upgrade. While it doesn’t revolutionize the game compared to existing LC3, aptX, and LDAC codecs, LHDC support ensures that more earbuds and headphones can play your music at the best quality from your Pixel phone. This is good news for both audiophiles and casual music lovers alike.
Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/pixel-lhdc-bluetooth-explained-3679869/
