Explained: Spatial Audio on Pixel phones, Buds Pro and how will it work – Times of India

Apple describes Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking as a technology that offers theatre-like sound with movies or videos that you watch. This technology makes the sound seem like it’s coming from all around the user. Spatial Audio is available on several Apple devices including iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs and more, while the head-tracking feature has to be enabled for audio products like AirPods. Google is now trying to inculcate this technology into Android devices, starting with Pixel 6 and 7 series smartphones along with the Pixel Buds Pro TWS earbuds.
Spatial Audio on Pixel devices: Availability
Google has recently released the 12th Feature Drop for Pixel devices with Android 13’s QPR1 December patch. With this update, the company has detailed how Spatial Audio will work and which Android apps will support this feature. However, Google has not clarified whether another update is required to activate the audio feature or if it is already added in the latest patch.

According to a report by 9to5Google, the Spatial Audio menu doesn’t seem to appear after installing the latest update. The report claims that Google is likely to make this feature available for all Pixel users with another update in January.
Spatial Audio with head-tracking on Pixel devices: How to enable
When Google finally rolls out the feature, Pixel users will be able to see a new Spatial Audio menu in the Sound & vibration section of the phone’s Settings app. Here, users can enable or disable Spatial Audio on their Pixel phones.

Head tracking, which is supported by the Pixel Buds Pro can also be enabled or disabled from the Settings app. You have to navigate to the Connected devices option and select the Pixel Buds Pro option (when connected with Bluetooth). Tap on Pixel Buds Pro to unveil the Settings option within which the Head tracking button will be available.
Spatial Audio on Pixel devices: Supported apps and other tips
Google has confirmed that Pixel users can enable Spatial Audio on their phones for the video streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Google TV and more. However, the content needs to support 5.1 or higher audio tracks. This feature will be available only with your headphones or earbuds.

The company also suggests that Spatial Audio will be available only on content marked as Dolby audio, 5.1 or Dolby Atmos. Google also advised users to keep their phones steady or place them on a stable surface or a stand while using this feature.