# SoundCloud Modernizes Audio Streaming AAC HLS format promises higher quality and reliability. - **Source:** [SoundCloud Backstage Blog](https://brifing.si/source/33500dd9-f9dd-4139-8ac3-4efdec37df99) - **Published:** 2025-09-15 - **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/9bc6bf05-c725-4fd5-8b5c-f77bfbf1b6b9 ## SoundCloud Modernizes Audio Streaming SoundCloud is modernizing its audio streams to provide a higher quality and more consistent listening experience. AAC HLS is replacing MP3 and Opus formats, ensuring better compatibility across devices. ## New AAC HLS Streams SoundCloud APIs now offer audio streams in AAC HLS format. New URLs like hls_aac_160_url (standard quality) and hls_aac_96_url (alternative quality) are available, promising improved quality and consistency. ## Transition Period and Support SoundCloud is offering a transition period before fully phasing out MP3 and Opus formats. Existing stream URLs will remain available until December 31, 2025. Users are encouraged to migrate to the new AAC HLS format early. ## API Integration Changes This update to SoundCloud APIs requires developers to update their integrations. Legacy formats like Progressive HTTP MP3 and HLS Opus will be discontinued. Testing with the new AAC HLS URLs is crucial. ## Example API Responses SoundCloud has provided examples of the updated API responses. After 2025, only new URLs like hls_aac_160_url and hls_aac_96_url will be supported. Preview URLs will continue to be available for preview purposes. ## Preparing for the Future SoundCloud's move shapes the future of audio streaming. Transitioning to AAC HLS ensures a higher quality and more reliable listening experience. Users are encouraged to migrate early and provide feedback. ## Sources covering this story - https://developers.soundcloud.com/blog//api-streaming-urls — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._