Google rolled out the stable Android 17 update last week, introducing several new features and quality-of-life improvements. As is often the case with major Android releases, users are continuing to uncover hidden additions tucked away in the update. One such feature is support for the LHDC Bluetooth audio codec, bringing improved wireless audio quality for compatible Pixel phones.
LHDC v5.0 Arrives on Pixel Phones
The feature was first spotted by Reddit user @QuantumCatalyz, who noticed that their Google Pixel 9 Pro now supports the LHDC codec, allowing Hi-Res Audio to work with their OnePlus Buds. This confirms that Google has quietly added LHDC support to Pixel phones with the Android 17 update.
For those unaware, LHDC stands for Low-Latency Hi-Definition Audio Codec, and it helps users stream high-quality lossless audio through wireless audio devices, alongside lower latency. The maximum supported audio quality that LHDC can handle is 24-bit/192 kHz, much better than SBC and AAC.
With Android 17, Pixel phone users with LHDC-compatible earbuds and headphones can enjoy lossless wireless audio from supported music streaming services like Apple Music and Spotify.
Lossless music on Pixels was previously possible thanks to LDAC, but due to the same being a Sony proprietary technology, users without Sony headphones were forced to listen to music in AAC and SBC, which would max out at 256 Kbps.
That said, lossless audio streaming via Bluetooth is still limited due to the technology's limited bandwidth. Any audio that exceeds LHDC's maximum supported quality of 24-bit/192 kHz and a 1 Mbps bitrate will be downsampled during playback.
So, while LHDC is a welcome addition for Pixel users, it still can't match the audio quality of a wired connection. Not to mention, listening wirelessly at higher bit rates can drain the earbud's battery sooner.
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