Eclipsa Audio: A New Spatial Audio Format Competing with Dolby Atmos
When it comes to spatial audio, names like Dolby Atmos and Apple Spatial Audio immediately come to mind. However, a new player has entered the market. Introducing Eclipsa Audio, a collaborative effort between Google and Samsung.
Samsung announced the Eclipsa Audio 3D format at CES, positioning it as a key competitor to the widely recognized Dolby Atmos. So, how does Eclipsa Audio stack up against Dolby Atmos? Is it innovative, or is it merely a competing standard?
This article delves into the essentials of Eclipsa Audio, comparing it with Dolby Atmos and discussing its future in the home theater market.
What is 3D or Spatial Audio?
Spatial audio represents the next frontier beyond traditional surround sound. Unlike traditional formats, which place audio in a flat plane, spatial audio attempts to incorporate the third dimension by creating sounds that seem to emanate from above you. This immersive experience simulates real-world soundscapes more accurately.
Creating spatial audio involves the entire production chain—from content creation to playback. When you watch Dolby Atmos-mixed media on compatible speakers, you are experiencing the format’s full capabilities. But the convenience often comes with a price, as Dolby Atmos is a licensed technology.
Eclipsa Audio vs Dolby Atmos
Samsung has a nuanced stance towards Dolby technologies, often opting for royalty-free alternatives like HDR10+ over Dolby Vision, which commands licensing fees. This pattern suggests Samsung’s preference for reducing expenses.
Eclipsa Audio, developed in partnership with Google, echoes a similar strategy. It aims to offer high-end spatial audio features without the hefty licensing fees associated with Dolby Atmos. The core technology behind Eclipsa Audio operates similarly to Dolby Atmos, using sound reflections to create a three-dimensional sound experience. However, Eclipsa Audio’s key differentiators lie in its open-source nature and low barrier to entry.
While Eclipsa Audio’s potential to reduce costs is significant, its effectiveness remains to be seen. The format is available primarily through a demo on the Alliance for Open Media’s website. Integration with streaming platforms and hardware products will be crucial for assessing its performance and widespread adoption.
When Will Eclipsa Audio Be Available in Your Home Theater?
Development of Eclipsa Audio began in 2023, under the ambitious name “Immersive Audio Model and Formats” (IAMF). In 2025, it was rebranded as Eclipsa Audio. Samsung will integrate this technology into its entire 2025 TV lineup and selected soundbars.
Google and Samsung’s partnership extends to integrating Eclipsa Audio into YouTube, allowing creators to upload spatial audio content. Furthermore, the format will be integrated into the Android Open Source Project, enabling its adoption across numerous Android devices.
Despite Samsung’s move towards Eclipsa Audio, it will likely continue supporting Dolby Atmos on its devices for the foreseeable future. A substantial amount of content and hardware support are necessary to make the switch worthwhile for Samsung.
Can Dolby Atmos and Eclipsa Audio Coexist?
