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How spatial audio works on headphones and speakers - and the best way to experience it

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Why This Matters

Spatial audio is transforming how consumers experience sound by creating immersive, 3D audio environments across various devices like headphones, soundbars, and streaming services. Its growing adoption enhances entertainment, gaming, and communication, making audio more realistic and engaging. Understanding how it works and the best ways to experience it is crucial for both industry innovators and consumers seeking richer audio experiences.

Key Takeaways

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ZDNET's key takeaways

Spatial audio is advertised in several flagship headphones, earbuds, speakers, and soundbars.

Spatial audio is a catch-all phrase, but there are more components to a 3D soundscape.

The best way to experience 3D audio depends on your audio format and device compatibility.

Spatial audio is everywhere these days: soundbars, smart speakers, headphones, and earbuds all advertise a spatial audio experience. Music streaming services such as Apple Music and TV streaming services such as Disney+ advertise spatial audio, with Dolby Atmos being the most popular vessel for this auditory experience.

Also: I flew 2,700 miles with Apple, Sony, and Sennheiser headphones - this pair had the best audio

But what does spatial audio mean, how does it work, how do different devices deliver it, and what's the best way to experience it? Here's everything you need to know.

What is spatial audio?

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