Philips has announced the first Lightning-connected headphones for iOS

Philips claims to have released the first headphones that connect to iOS devices using the Lightning connector instead of the conventional 3.5mm headphone jack. At WWDC 2014 Apple did talk about headphones that will be compatible with Lightning connectors but it wasn’t revealed which accessory manufacturer would be the first to come out with them. Philips seems to have taken the lead with the Fidelio M2L. Because it uses the Lightning port in iOS devices the Fidelio M2L can bypass internal DAC of the devices and play high resolution 24-bit audio through its built-in amplifier and DAC.

The first-ever Lightning-connected headphones for iOS devices are coming from Philips, offering 24-bit digital to analog conversion thanks to the use of Apple’s proprietary connector. The new Philips Fidelio M2L headphones can connect to an iPhone, iPad or iPod via Apple’s Lightning connector, allowing not only 24-bit DAC, but also amplification within the headphones. The new Apple-authorized accessory will launch in North America and Western Europe in December, and was first revealed by Pocket-lint on Wednesday. Digital output from Apple’s Lightning connector will allow the Fidelio M2L headphones to eliminate crosstalk and interference. The over-the-ear-style headphones with breathable leather and memory foam ear pads also include two 40-millimeter high magnetic intensity neodymium speaker drivers that Philips promises to deliver wide ranging audio with dynamic bass. “We’re excited to launch the Philips Fidelio M2L, our first headphone that has a direct digital connection to your iOS device,” said Pascal van Laer, headphones business leader at WOOX Innovations. This means we can deliver an incredible audio experience today, and also opens up exciting opportunities for innovation for the future.”