Samsung and Google Unveil Eclipsa Audio, a New Standard for 3D Sound
Samsung and Google have introduced Eclipsa Audio, an open-source 3D audio format designed to deliver immersive sound experiences. This groundbreaking technology, set to debut later this year on select YouTube videos, will also feature in Samsung’s 2025 lineup of TVs and soundbars. Positioned as a cost-effective alternative to Dolby Atmos, Eclipsa Audio promises to redefine spatial audio technology.
What is Eclipsa Audio?
Eclipsa Audio is a next-generation 3D audio format that enhances realism and immersion by:
- Precisely adjusting sound placement and intensity to match the content.
- Simulating spatial reflections for a lifelike audio experience.
Unlike proprietary formats, Eclipsa Audio is free from licensing fees, allowing manufacturers to integrate it without additional costs while maintaining premium sound quality.
A Competitor to Dolby Atmos
Eclipsa Audio represents a strategic move by Samsung to support open standards, echoing its preference for HDR10 Plus over Dolby Vision HDR. Key benefits include:
- No licensing fees, reducing barriers for manufacturers.
- Flexibility for creators and hardware developers, encouraging innovation and adoption.
These features position Eclipsa Audio as a formidable rival to Dolby Atmos, the current leader in 3D sound.
A Collaborative Innovation
The development of Eclipsa Audio began in 2023 under the Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF) initiative. Significant milestones include:
- Adoption by the Alliance for Open Media, which promotes royalty-free codecs.
- Certification partnerships with the Telecommunications Technology Association, ensuring consistent audio quality.
This collaboration underscores Samsung and Google’s commitment to making Eclipsa Audio an industry standard. Its open-source framework invites widespread adoption without the financial burden of royalties, mirroring the success of the AV1 video codec.
Availability and Future Outlook
Eclipsa Audio will be available on select YouTube videos in 2025, with support integrated into Samsung’s upcoming TVs and soundbars. As CES 2025 approaches, additional details regarding certification and broader adoption are anticipated.
With its ability to deliver high-quality, immersive audio at no extra cost, Eclipsa Audio could disrupt the audio landscape, offering content creators, manufacturers, and consumers a compelling alternative to existing proprietary formats.
