Spatial Audio
Three-dimensional sound technology that places audio sources in virtual space around listeners.
Definition
Spatial audio creates three-dimensional soundscapes where audio appears to originate from specific locations in space around listeners. Technologies like Dolby Atmos and Apple Spatial Audio enable immersive sound experiences in theaters, headphones, and home systems.
The technology transforms passive audio consumption into environmental experiences where sound moves and surrounds listeners.
Why It Matters
Spatial audio enhances immersion for film, music, and gaming experiences. Understanding these capabilities helps content creators design audio experiences that utilize new creative possibilities.
As spatial audio becomes standard on consumer devices, content optimized for the format gains competitive advantage.
Examples in Practice
Dolby Atmos theaters place discrete speakers throughout venues including overhead, creating immersive soundscapes. Apple Music offers spatial audio remixes of popular songs optimized for AirPods.
Spatial audio mixing has become a specialized skill as demand grows for content utilizing the technology.