Spatial Audio on Netflix: Immersive Sound on iPhone & iPad

Netflix Adds Spatial Audio for AirPods Pro and Max Users

For those utilizing AirPods Pro or AirPods Max, the Netflix viewing experience on mobile devices is poised to become significantly more engaging.

Netflix officially announced yesterday the commencement of a rollout for spatial audio support on both iPhone and iPad, specifically for devices running iOS 14 or later.

Expanding Immersive Audio Options

This addition places Netflix alongside other prominent streaming platforms such as HBO Max, Disney+, and Peacock, all of which currently offer this feature.

Notably, popular services like Amazon Prime Video and YouTube have yet to implement spatial audio functionality.

Netflix clarified that the update will not be universally available immediately; however, users receiving the update will find a toggle to enable or disable it within the Control Center.

Apple's Focus on Spatial Audio

Apple has been actively promoting its spatial audio capabilities in recent times.

The initial announcement regarding spatial audio for AirPods Pro was made during the WWDC conference in 2020.

This year’s conference saw the addition of spatial audio and lossless audio streaming for Apple Music subscribers, available at no additional cost.

This includes dynamic head tracking, which intelligently adjusts the audio as the user moves their head.

The Android version of the Apple Music application also supports both spatial and lossless audio.

In February, Spotify announced plans for a premium subscription tier, Spotify HiFi, offering lossless audio, though updates regarding its release have been absent.

Netflix Diversifies Content Offerings

Last month, Netflix disclosed its exploration into mobile gaming, complementing its existing library of films and television series.

The company has previously experimented with interactive narratives, such as “Black Mirror: Bandersnatch” and various “Stranger Things” games.

“We consider gaming as a new content category, comparable to our expansion into original films, animation, and unscripted television,” stated Netflix in its quarterly earnings report.

Potential for Gaming Integration

Given the popularity of spatial audio among video game enthusiasts, it is conceivable that this feature may also be integrated into future Netflix mobile games.

This update will initially enhance the streaming video experience on iPhone and iPad.