Published On: January 3, 2025

Samsung's Eclipsa Audio Might Be the Biggest Threat to Dolby Atmos Yet

Published On: January 3, 2025
Last Updated on: January 7, 2025
We May Earn From Purchases Via Links

Samsung's Eclipsa Audio Might Be the Biggest Threat to Dolby Atmos Yet

Samsung and Google have unveiled Eclipsa Audio, a new open-source 3D sound technology set to debut in 2025 Samsung TVs and soundbars.

Samsung's Eclipsa Audio Might Be the Biggest Threat to Dolby Atmos Yet

Samsung Electronics has officially introduced Eclipsa Audio, a new 3D audio technology developed in collaboration with Google. Designed as an open-source alternative to Dolby Atmos, Eclipsa Audio promises a fresh approach to immersive sound experiences. The technology will debut in Samsung's 2025 TV and soundbar lineup, ranging from entry-level Crystal UHD models to the flagship Neo QLED 8K series.

We’re so excited about the potential of this royalty-free spatial audio format that we’ve given Eclipsa Audio our Best of CES award. With its open-source nature and Google’s support, there’s a real chance we’ll see spatial audio become a staple on platforms like YouTube, making it more accessible than ever.

Eclipsa Audio is a spatial audio format that allows creators to map sound in a three-dimensional space. Unlike traditional stereo or surround sound, this format enables precise placement of audio elements, creating an immersive listening experience. For instance, viewers could hear sounds as if they are moving dynamically around them, mimicking real-world acoustics.

The format was originally conceptualized as Project Caviar and later referred to as IAMF (Immersive Audio Model and Formats) during its development. Now branded as Eclipsa Audio, it aims to rival established technologies like Dolby Atmos. However, unlike Dolby, Eclipsa Audio is open-source and royalty-free, potentially making it a more cost-effective solution for manufacturers.

Samsung Neo QLED 8K.

“We are proud to lead the industry with the integration of Eclipsa Audio into our 2025 TV and soundbar lineup,” said Taeyong Son, Executive Vice President and Head of the R&D Team, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics. “This innovation opens new possibilities for immersive audio experiences and reinforces our commitment to shaping the future of home entertainment.”

Samsung is rolling out Eclipsa Audio across its entire 2025 lineup of TVs and soundbars, from the budget-friendly Crystal UHD series to the high-end Neo QLED and QD-OLED models. That means no matter what kind of TV you’re in the market for, there’s a good chance it’ll come with this new immersive audio tech built right in.

Given Samsung’s dominance in the TV market—especially for screens over 75 inches—this move could help Eclipsa Audio gain traction quickly. Still, there’s a long road ahead to make this format as widespread as its competitors.

Starting in 2025, YouTube will let creators upload videos using Eclipsa Audio, giving viewers a chance to experience this new immersive sound format. The catch? You’ll need a 2025 Samsung TV or soundbar to enjoy it.

While teaming up with YouTube is a solid start, it’s unclear if other platforms like Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video will hop on board anytime soon. This limited support could slow down its momentum, but Samsung and Google seem confident that Eclipsa Audio has what it takes to catch on.

Samsung Eclipsa Audio 3D audio technology.

Eclipsa Audio being open-source and free of licensing fees makes it an attractive option for manufacturers, especially in an industry where profit margins are razor-thin. But the real challenge isn’t the technology—it’s getting everyone to use it.

For now, Dolby Atmos has a huge head start, with far more compatible devices out there. Samsung’s strong presence in the TV market might help close that gap, but there’s a classic chicken-and-egg problem: content creators might not want to use Eclipsa Audio until more devices support it, and consumers may hold off on buying those devices if there’s not much content available. It’s a waiting game, but Samsung and Google are betting on the long term.

“We believe that Eclipsa Audio has the potential to change the way we experience sound,” said Jim Bankoski, Vice President of Engineering, Google Chrome. “We are excited to see how the creator community uses it to create new and innovative audio experiences.”

Samsung and Google are gearing up to show off Eclipsa Audio at CES 2025 next weeok, giving attendees a chance to experience the technology firsthand. It’s their big moment to showcase what this new audio format can do and how it could change the way we enjoy sound at home.

Related:

Subscribe To Home Theater Review

Get the latest weekly home theater news, sweepstakes and special offers delivered right to your inbox
Email Subscribe
© JRW Publishing Company, 2023
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases.

magnifiercross
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram
Share to...