Although insiders had previously teased that Apple was working on a new premium version of Apple Music, perhaps introducing a new tiered system in the same vein as TIDAL, the company shocked fans and critics alike by announcing an array of new features would be coming to the $9.99 per month streaming service for free.
One of the most exciting is Apple’s plan to bring Spatial Audio to Apple Music, supported by Dolby Atmos sound. Dolby Atmos offers a truly immersive sound experience on devices like HomePod as well as Apple AirPods and AirPods Max, allowing musicians and artists to mix music so that the sound comes from all around and above.
Apple says that Dolby Atmos will play as standard on Beats and AirPods with an H1 or W1 chip, and the latest iPhone, iPad, and Mac range will also benefit. Although the details on exactly how many pieces of music will be supported by Dolby Atmos at launch are sketchy, the company has promised that it will add new content “constantly” as well as curate a set of Dolby Atmos playlists to help users find music that they love. What’s more, albums that are compatible with Dolby Atmos will display a badge.
Apple says that, at the launch of the new service, users will be able to listen to thousands of Spatial Audio songs, from the world’s biggest artists and including genres such as pop, classical, and hip-hop, and the company is working with both musicians and labels to add new releases and catalog music every day.
Apple also says that it anticipates musicians will create music specifically with Spatial Audio in mind and added that Apple and Dolby were working to create a platform that was easier for musicians, engineers, and producers to create content for Apple Music, and said initiatives such as doubling the number of Dolby-enabled studios in major markets, offering educational programs in Dolby Atmos, and giving independent artists the resources they need to create original music would all aid in the adoption of the service.
Speaking of the new initiative, Kevin Yeaman, Dolby Laboratories’ president, and CEO said that Dolby’s partnership with Apple allowed the pair to offer a “new music experience that is transforming how music is created by artists and enjoyed by their fans,” whilst musician J Balvin, responsible for hits such as Mi Gente and LOCATION, added that he “always [wants] to be a step ahead and I think this is one of those steps.
“With Lossless, everything in the music is going to sound bigger and stronger but more importantly, it will be of better quality. Hearing myself and my music in Dolby Atmos for the first time, was just crazy, it blew my mind, it’s indescribable. Fans will love this experience!”
Although fans will need to wait until June to access Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos sound on their Apple Music subscription, those eager to experience the difference can listen to a podcast on Apple Music hosted by Zane Lowe, who introduces the “next dimension in sound.”
Are you looking forward to Spatial Audio? Let us know and check back soon for more.
