After rumors about the arrival of the
Netflix Spatial Audio feature, it is finally rolling out. Obviously, the feature is rolling out for
iPhone and
iPad devices on
iOS 14 and above. The Spatial Audio Feature is exclusive to AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, hence, for now, only
Apple devices will be able to enjoy the experience.
For those unaware, the new Spatial Audio feature enables an immersive experience that uses directional audio filters. With this feature enabled, iPhone and iPad users can experience a deeper and rich audio experience while listening to music or even watching movies, shows, etc. The feature took a while to reach users, but apparently, the wait will be worth it.
According to
9to5Mac which cites a Netflix spokesperson, the new feature is rolling out for iPhone and iPad devices currently running
iOS 14 and above. The news was firstly reported by users on Reddit. Users who meet the Spatial Audio requirements will have the feature available through the Control Center menu.
Netflix Spatial Audio comes to enhance the iPhone / iPad audio experience with the app
According to Apple, spatial audio is an immersive experience using audio filters. It allows users to “play sounds virtually anywhere in space, creating an immersive sound experience". If you want a deep explanation from Apple, read below the company's statement about Spatial Audio:
"Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking brings the movie theater experience right to your AirPods Pro. By applying directional audio filters and subtly adjusting the frequencies each ear receives, spatial audio can place sounds virtually anywhere in space. Thus creating an immersive surround sound experience. It uses the gyroscope and accelerometer in your AirPods Pro and your iPhone. The spatial audio tracks the motion of your head as well as your device. It compares the motion data, and then remaps the sound field so that it stays anchored to your device. It works smootly even as your head moves."
Interestingly,
iOS 15 will enhance Spatial Audio even further. The company introduces Spatialize Stereo Option with the upcoming version of its mobile operating system. It simulates the Spatial Audio experience for non-Dolby Atmos content. This allows AirPods Pro and AirPods Max users to listen to pretty much any song or video with the same enhanced experience.
To experience Spatial Audio in the Netflix app, head to the App Store and check if the update is available for you. However, Netflix states that the rollout will be slow and gradual. So you'll need to wait patiently, as there is no right way to trigger this update.