Google has quietly enabled support for the LHDC (Low Latency High-Definition Audio Codec) in Android 17, providing Pixel 6 and later models with high-resolution wireless audio capabilities. While the feature remains hidden within the developer settings, it allows compatible devices to stream audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz, offering a stable alternative to the LDAC codec according to reports from early testers on Reddit.
How to activate LHDC on your Google Pixel
To enable the codec, users must navigate to the hidden developer options menu, as Google has not included a toggle in the standard sound settings. According to the internal documentation for Android 17, users should go to Settings > System > Developer options > Bluetooth and select LHDC v5 from the audio codec list. This option only becomes selectable when a compatible audio device is actively connected to the phone. Some third-party headphones may also require users to toggle a “Hi-Res” mode within their specific manufacturer’s mobile application to finalize the connection.
Why does LHDC matter for wireless audio?
The addition of LHDC places Pixel devices on par with hardware from brands like Nothing, OnePlus, and OPPO, which have long supported the codec. Unlike Sony’s LDAC, which is often criticized for connection instability in crowded radio environments, LHDC utilizes an adaptive bitrate that maintains a consistent link without requiring dedicated proprietary chips, as noted by industry analysts. While Google has capped the implementation at 24-bit/96 kHz—below the codec’s maximum technical threshold of 192 kHz—the move prioritizes connection reliability over raw data throughput.
Does this impact your current audio hardware?
The benefit of this update is strictly limited to users who own third-party headphones that support the LHDC standard. Notably, Google’s own Pixel Buds do not currently support LHDC, creating a disconnect between the company’s software updates and its own hardware ecosystem. For users with standard Bluetooth earbuds or those relying on the default AAC codec, the change will have no audible impact.
Did you know?
LHDC is certified by the Japan Audio Society as “Hi-Res Audio Wireless.” It was developed by Savitech and is designed to provide near-lossless audio quality over Bluetooth, bridging the gap between wired fidelity and wireless convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do all Pixel phones support LHDC? No, support is limited to the Pixel 6 series and newer devices running Android 17.
- Why is the LHDC option greyed out? The option remains inactive unless you have a pair of LHDC-compatible headphones connected to your device.
- Is LHDC better than LDAC? LHDC is generally regarded as having more stable connectivity in busy wireless environments, though both offer high-resolution playback.
- Will this improve sound quality on all apps? Only if the source material is high-resolution; standard compressed audio will not see a benefit from this codec change.
Have you tested your headphones with the new Android 17 audio settings? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into hidden smartphone features.
