Apple AirPlay supports 24-bit lossless audio but you can't use it

If AirPlay is limited to 16-bit CD-quality streams, how is the HomePod able to use AirPlay at a better-than-CD 24-bits?

What is AirPlay 2? How it works, and what speakers and devices support it

Apple Music lossless: which devices will (and won't) play lossless and Spatial Audio

Apple Music's hi-res plumbing is still leaky

Apple Music Lossless Airplay quality? - Apple Community

Apple Hi-Res Lossless 24-bit/192 kHz - Connection to AV Receiver?

What is Apple Lossless Audio and What Devices are Supported?

Apple Music: How to listen to lossless tracks on your smartphone

Apple Hi-Res lossless via Airplay using Yamaha R-N303 / RxV683

4 Steps to Getting Lossless Audio Music From AppleTV

Does airplay support 24 bit? How do we take advantage of the new lossless feature? : r/AppleMusic