Google Pixel Update For January Adds Spatial Audio Support And Fixes A Host Of Issues

Google is kicking off 2023 with a brand new software program replace for the Pixel telephones, one thing it does virtually each month. Nevertheless, this replace is not simply the same old assortment of bug fixes and patches. Pixel homeowners can even get long-awaited assist for spatial audio, however this characteristic is proscribed to the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Professional, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6 Professional.

Spatial audio gained traction in cellular after Apple added it to the AirPods Professional. Much like options which have existed in PC audio for years, spatial audio makes it appear as if audio channels are emanating from a selected location in house, thus simulating encompass sound. Google started including code for its personal model of spatial audio in Android 13 this past fall, however its telephones wanted an replace to show it on—and now they’ve it.

As soon as enabled within the settings, spatial audio will assist content material from video streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Google TV, and HBOMax. Nevertheless, the content material must have 5.1 audio or greater for the telephone to simulate encompass sound in your headphones. These apps do not all the time have essentially the most constant method of indicating audio assist, however something marked as Dolby Audio, 5.1, or Dolby Atmos ought to have the required channels to work with spatial audio.

There’s one other degree of spatial audio assist, which requires particular {hardware}. When you have the Pixel Buds Professional, Google is planning a firmware replace for these earbuds that can allow head-tracking spatial audio. This could basically tie channels to particular areas, giving the impression of discreet audio system positioned round you as you progress your head. That is hit-and-miss on the iPhone, so it is going to be attention-grabbing to see how effectively it really works on the Pixel telephones.

The newest OTA replace is rolling out to all supported Pixel phones, and it consists of greater than spatial audio. You’ll be able to count on enhancements to fingerprint unlock, Bluetooth connectivity, and fixes for some nagging points with the digicam and gadget wake-up. The brand new model is on the market to obtain instantly in case you do not thoughts sideloading the OTA file. In any other case, you may need to attend a day or two for the replace to look in your telephone naturally. You can even verify to see in case your telephone can set up the replace by going to Settings > System > System Update. The Pixel Buds Professional replace will probably be reside within the coming weeks.