Can Samsung and Google Dethrone Dolby Atmos with New Spatial Audio Format? 

The new spatial audio format, Eclipsa Audio, will be introduced at CES 2025 next week.

Image: Samsung

Can Eclipsa Audio truly challenge Dolby Atmos's dominance? Samsung and Google are betting on it. They're introducing Eclipsa Audio, a new spatial audio format aiming to redefine sound experiences. This isn't a minor update; it's a full-scale push for a new industry standard. Eclipsa Audio will debut on select YouTube videos later this year and be fully integrated into Samsung's 2025 TV and soundbar lineup. This unveiling is expected at CES 2025, starting next week. This strategy echoes Samsung's earlier adoption of HDR10 Plus against Dolby Vision, demonstrating a serious commitment. Interestingly, Samsung's recent 2025 monitor lineup announcement leaves open the question of whether Dolby Atmos will also be supported alongside Eclipsa Audio in these displays.  

What makes Eclipsa Audio stand out? It promises a truly immersive 3D audio experience. Like Dolby Atmos, Eclipsa Audio meticulously manages audio data, adjusting sound location, intensity, and spatial reflections to create a three-dimensional soundscape. Imagine a crowd's roar surrounding you or the subtle rustle of leaves overhead, all precisely placed within your listening environment. This is the promise of spatial audio, and Eclipsa aims to deliver it in a new way.  

Eclipsa Audio's origins lie in a 2023 partnership between Samsung and Google, initially named Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF). Samsung's spatial audio head, WooHyun Nam, envisioned “a complete open-source framework for 3D audio, from creation to delivery and playback.” This open-source approach is key, potentially offering a free alternative to licensing models like Dolby Atmos—a significant advantage for hardware manufacturers.  

The IAMF specification has also garnered support from the Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia), a consortium advocating for royalty-free codecs since 2015. With members like Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Netflix, Samsung, and Google, AOMedia's backing gives Eclipsa Audio considerable weight. While the widespread adoption of their AV1 video codec has been gradual, the potential for broader industry support for Eclipsa Audio is a significant advantage.  

To ensure consistent audio quality across devices, Samsung and Google are establishing a certification program with the Telecommunications Technology Association. This mirrors the quality assurance processes of established players like Dolby and THX, reinforcing their commitment to a high-quality audio experience.  

So, can Eclipsa Audio dethrone Dolby Atmos?

It's early, but the signs are promising. Eclipsa Audio's open-source nature, combined with major industry backing, could disrupt the audio landscape. The potential for a cost-effective, high-quality 3D audio experience is appealing to both manufacturers and consumers.

Key Takeaways:

• Open-Source Advantage: Eclipsa Audio's open-source nature could lead to wider adoption and lower costs.
• Industry Backing: AOMedia's support, along with key players like Google and Samsung, gives Eclipsa Audio a strong foundation.
• Focus on Quality: The certification program aims for consistent, high-quality audio.  
• CES 2025 Debut: Eclipsa Audio is expected to be showcased at CES 2025 next week.  
• Monitor Implications: Samsung’s 2025 monitor announcements raise questions about Dolby Atmos integration alongside Eclipsa Audio.

While Dolby Atmos is a dominant force in spatial audio, Eclipsa Audio presents a compelling alternative. Whether it ultimately "dethrones" Dolby Atmos is yet to be seen, but the increased competition is positive for consumers seeking truly immersive audio. This is a development worth watching.