In Dec. 2022, Google announced that the Pixel 6 and 7 series will support Spatial Audio through compatible earphones like the Pixel Buds Pro. The company also confirmed the list of apps that will support the feature when using its Pixel phones and the Pixel Buds Pro earbuds. Spatial audio has long been supported by Apple's AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, and it's also available on Apple Music. Major desktop platforms also support spatial audio, with Mac and Windows supporting the feature through compatible sound systems.
Spatial Audio is available on four recent Pixel phones, including the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 7, and 7 Pro. To enable it, open the phone's Settings app, tap 'Sound & vibration,' and select 'Spatial Audio.' Switch on the toggle next to 'Wired headphones' to ensure that the feature will be available every time a pair of wired headphones are used to listen to audio. The same page will also offer users the ability to turn on the feature for Bluetooth devices. Tap on the 'Connected devices settings' link and tap the gear icon next to the wireless accessory. On the next page, scroll down and switch on the 'Spatial Audio' option at the bottom. The feature will have to be activated separately for each connected device.
Spatial Audio On Pixel Devices
While Spatial Audio was available on Pixel devices in Jan. 2023, Google has since also rolled out the 'Head Tracking' option for the Pixel Buds Pro. Head over to 'Settings,' tap 'Connected devices,' hit the gear icon next to Pixel Buds Pro, and then tap 'Head tracking.' On the next page, simply switch on the relevant toggle to enable the feature.
Enabling head tracking will change the audio to make it sound more natural as the user moves their head around. However, the feature is only available for the Pixel Buds Pro and not for other earphones or earbuds. As of Feb. 2023, Google is believed to be preparing a demo video that will highlight the immersive effects of Spatial Audio and why it is more desirable than traditional stereo sound.
Multiple streaming apps already support the feature with select content, including Google TV, HBO Max, Netflix, Disney Plus, and YouTube. Spatial Audio works with all forms of audio, including .mp3 files, streaming media, movies, and TV shows, provided they support Dolby Audio or 5.1-channel surround sound or higher. Spatial Audio is a great feature for audiophiles, and its availability on Pixel phones will only help make it more popular.
Source: Google