ADM BWF (Audio Definition Model Broadcast Wave Format)
Definition
A file format that embeds Dolby Atmos spatial metadata — object positions, sizes, and movements — directly inside a standard WAV file. The ADM BWF is the primary delivery format for Dolby Atmos content to streaming platforms and distributors.
In Simple Terms
The file format that carries your Dolby Atmos mix. It looks like a regular WAV file but contains hidden 3D position data for every sound. Without a valid ADM BWF, streaming platforms can't read your Atmos mix.
In Practice
A completed Dolby Atmos music mix is exported from the Dolby Atmos Renderer as an ADM BWF file, which is then uploaded to the distributor for delivery to Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Music.
Dolby Atmos Context
ADM BWF files can contain up to 128 audio tracks (beds + objects) with full spatial metadata. The renderer embeds the positional data as XML within the BWF container. Distributors validate this metadata before accepting Atmos deliveries.