The ability of Apple Music to play files encoded with the Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC) is a significant consideration for audiophiles and individuals who prioritize high-fidelity audio reproduction. FLAC is an audio coding format for lossless data compression, meaning it preserves the original audio data without discarding any information. This contrasts with lossy compression formats like MP3, which sacrifice some data to achieve smaller file sizes.
The significance of support for this lossless format lies in its ability to deliver audio quality that is virtually indistinguishable from the original source. For listeners using high-end headphones or speaker systems, the subtle nuances and details preserved in FLAC files become audible, enhancing the listening experience. Historically, the availability of this format on streaming platforms has been limited, making its inclusion a noteworthy advancement for services like Apple Music, offering subscribers a higher-quality audio option.
