aptX-HD
aptX-HD is Qualcomm's hi-res Bluetooth audio codec that transmits up to 576 kbps at 24-bit / 48 kHz. It's the second-best Bluetooth audio quality after LDAC and works on both Android and iOS devices.
aptX-HD is a Bluetooth audio codec from Qualcomm that transmits audio at up to 576 kbps, 24-bit / 48 kHz. It sits between standard SBC (poor quality) and LDAC (near-CD quality) in the Bluetooth codec hierarchy.
The aptX family
- aptX — the original, ~352 kbps, 16-bit / 44.1 kHz. Better than SBC, not hi-res.
- aptX-HD — 576 kbps, 24-bit / 48 kHz. Hi-res quality.
- aptX-LL (Low Latency) — ~40ms latency, useful for TV/gaming. Not hi-res.
- aptX Adaptive — variable 279-420 kbps, adjusts based on signal quality.
Where you’ll find it
aptX-HD is supported on most Android phones and many Windows PCs. It’s built into most modern audiophile Bluetooth receivers: AIYIMA A80, AIYIMA D20, FiiO EH11. Notably absent: iPhone doesn’t support aptX-HD (Apple uses AAC).
Common myths & realities
aptX-HD works with iPhone
No. Apple doesn't license Qualcomm aptX codecs.
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