It is these phase delays that simulate the wider soundstage and make it feel like audio is coming from above or behind you. Instead, the iPhone plays tricks on your brain by sending audio to the left and right speakers/headphones with slight phase delays. The point is, it’s not an Apple-exclusive thing.ĭolby Atmos songs can theoretically be played on any headphones or earbuds because it doesn’t rely on special hardware. Dolby Atmos has become popular for home video for movies and TV shows (such as all the content in Apple TV+ is available in 4K HDR with Atmos sound) and is now starting to enter the world of music.ĭolby Atmos music is available in the Apple Music streaming library, but it’s also offered by other services like Amazon Music HD. Spatial Audio is Apple’s branding around a rising standard in music, with songs authored as Dolby Atmos soundtracks. You can enjoy Apple Music Spatial Audio on headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones - here’s how … However, in my experience, the effect is most pronounced when using large over-ear headphones but you don’t need the pricey AirPods Max. Apple advertises it as being supported by any AirPods, including the original generation.

Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos songs are available at no extra charge with your Apple Music subscription.

Spatial audio apple music vs spotify