ALAC

Apple Lossless Audio Codec

A lossless audio compression format developed by Apple Inc. Lossless compression allows audio data to be compressed without any loss of audio quality, which means that the original audio quality is preserved when the file is compressed and later decompressed.

ALAC is specifically designed for Apple devices and software, and it is a popular choice for users who want to enjoy high-quality audio without sacrificing storage space. Here are some key points about ALAC:

1. Lossless Compression: ALAC employs lossless compression techniques to reduce file sizes while retaining the full audio quality of the source.
2. Apple Ecosystem: ALAC is natively supported by Apple’s devices and software, including iTunes, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers. This makes it a convenient choice for users within the Apple ecosystem.
3. Cross-Platform Compatibility: While ALAC is designed for Apple devices, third-party media players and applications also support ALAC playback on non-Apple platforms.
4. Bit-for-Bit Accuracy: When an ALAC file is decompressed, the resulting audio is identical to the source, ensuring no loss of audio fidelity.
5. Flexible Bit Rates: ALAC supports a range of bit rates, allowing users to choose the desired balance between file size and audio quality.
6. Digital Archiving: ALAC is a popular choice for archiving high-quality audio collections, as it maintains the original audio quality while reducing storage space requirements.

It’s important to note that ALAC is not as widely supported as other audio formats, especially outside the Apple ecosystem. If you’re looking for a lossless audio format that offers compatibility across various platforms, FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is another popular option to consider.

• Abbreviation: ALAC