Netflix is reportedly testing support for the new spatial audio feature of iOS 14. According to a report by iPhoneSoft, referring to an anonymous Netflix developer, the company has been testing spatial audio support on iPhone and iPad since December.
There really is not much work needed at the end of Netflix to support spatial audio. The service already offers a variety of surround sound content, which converts the spatial sound into virtual surround sound. Many streaming services including Apple TV +, Hulu and Disney + all support spatial audio.
The iPhoneSoft The report does not provide specific information on when Netflix will roll out spatial audio report, but vaguely suggests a spring release with a ‘limited’ catalog.
What is spatial sound?
The spatial audio feature is exclusive to AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, and the switch is accessible via the Control Center when your AirPods are connected.
Apple says that spatial sound is an immersive experience using directional sound filters to “play sounds virtually anywhere in space, creating an immersive sound experience.” It places surround channels in exactly the right place, even when you turn your head or move your device.
Here’s how Apple describes the spatial audio feature for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max users:
Spatial sound with dynamic head tracking brings the movie theater experience right to your AirPods Pro. By applying directional sound filters and subtly adjusting the frequencies each ear receives, spatial sound can place sounds virtually anywhere in the space, creating an immersive surround sound experience. Using the gyroscope and accelerometer in your AirPods Pro and your iPhone, spatial sound tracks the movement of your head as well as your device, compares the motion data and then repositions the sound field so that it stays anchored to your device even when your head moves .
One important thing to keep in mind is that only the highest Premium level of Netflix supports Dolby Atmos surround sound. It’s possible that Netflix is also limiting Spatial Audio to the Premium subscribers, but we do not yet know the details.
If you see Netflix spatial audio support on your iPhone or iPad, please let us know in the comments or further Twitter @ 9to5Mac.
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