Immersive Audio

Definition

A category of audio formats and mixing approaches that place sound in three-dimensional space around and above the listener, beyond the conventional horizontal stereo or surround field. Includes Dolby Atmos, Sony 360 Reality Audio, and Auro-3D.

In Simple Terms

Sound that surrounds you in three dimensions, not just left and right, but above and behind. Dolby Atmos is the most common format. Think of the difference between looking at a photo of a room versus being inside it.

In Practice

Streaming a Dolby Atmos music mix through Apple Music with compatible headphones provides an immersive experience where instruments appear to exist in three-dimensional space around the listener.

Sources & Verification

• →
  ITU-R BS.2051-3. Advanced sound system for programme production
  International Telecommunication Union, 2022
  https://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-BS.2051
• →
  ITU-R BS.2076-2. Audio Definition Model
  International Telecommunication Union, 2019
  https://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-BS.2076
• →
  Sony 360 Reality Audio. Format overview and creator tools
  Sony Corporation
  https://www.sony.com/electronics/360-reality-audio

Last verified: 2026-05-05

Related Terms