iFi UP Play Max Unlocks More Bluetooth Codecs Over USB-C

iFi has introduced the UP Play Max, a compact USB Type-C Bluetooth transmitter designed to expand the wireless audio capabilities of phones, tablets, computers and compatible gaming devices. Priced at $89, the 3-gram accessory supports aptX Lossless, LDAC and several additional codecs while adding low-latency playback, a built-in microphone and app-based controls.

A USB-C Route Around Native Codec Limits

The UP Play Max connects directly to a compatible source device through USB Type-C, allowing it to handle Bluetooth transmission instead of relying on the source’s built-in wireless audio implementation. This is particularly relevant to iPhone and iPad users because conventional Bluetooth audio from Apple devices is limited to AAC and SBC, even when the connected headphones support other codecs.

Android devices, computers and gaming hardware may also benefit where native codec availability is limited or inconsistent. However, the transmitter does not add capabilities to the receiving product. Headphones, earbuds or a Bluetooth DAC must support the selected codec for it to be used.

Built around Qualcomm’s QCC5181 chipset and Bluetooth 5.4, the UP Play Max supports aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, LDAC, AAC and SBC. Its stated maximum resolution is 24-bit/96kHz, while aptX Lossless can carry lossless 16-bit/44.1kHz audio when used with a compatible receiver.

K2 Processing and Nexis App Control

iFi has also incorporated K2 Technology licensed from JVCKENWOOD. According to the company, this processing is intended to reconstruct harmonic information removed during digital processing. K2 is optional rather than permanently applied and can be enabled or disabled through the iFi Nexis app.

Available for iOS and Android, Nexis provides access to codec selection, paired-device management, K2 processing and low-latency settings. The app will also manage Auracast controls and deliver over-the-air firmware updates.

The transmitter measures 27.6 x 20.8 x 8 mm and weighs 3 grams, keeping the hardware small enough to remain attached to a portable source without adding substantial bulk.

Low Latency, Calls and Two-Headphone Playback

A dedicated low-latency mode uses aptX Adaptive to reduce the delay between sound and picture during gaming or video playback. As with the other codec-dependent functions, the receiving headphones or audio device must offer the necessary support.

The integrated microphone extends the UP Play Max beyond music transmission. It uses Qualcomm noise and echo suppression for voice calls and in-game chat, providing an alternative to relying on the microphone built into connected headphones.

Two pairs of standard Bluetooth headphones can be paired with the transmitter at the same time for shared listening. This mode is restricted to the SBC codec, so users cannot combine simultaneous dual-headphone playback with the device’s higher-resolution codec options.

Auracast Will Follow After Launch

Auracast support is part of iFi’s plans for the UP Play Max, enabling one source to broadcast audio to multiple compatible receivers. The feature will not be active immediately and is scheduled to arrive through a post-launch firmware update. It should therefore be regarded as a future capability rather than a launch-day function.

The UP Play Max is aimed at users who already own compatible wireless headphones, earbuds or Bluetooth DACs but cannot access their preferred codec from a particular source. Its combination of broad codec support, low-latency operation, microphone functionality and planned Auracast compatibility also gives it uses beyond portable music playback.

The iFi UP Play Max is priced at $89 and will be sold through iFi and authorized dealers.

With extensive codec support in a 3-gram USB-C design, the UP Play Max offers a practical way to upgrade Bluetooth transmission without replacing an existing phone, computer or compatible receiving device. Its most important limitation is straightforward: both ends of the wireless connection must support the chosen codec.