Dolby Labs is set to revolutionize home theaters with their latest technology, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect. In a bold move that redefines audio experience, the new technology allows users to position wireless speakers anywhere in the room, using the TV’s built-in microphones to automatically calibrate them with the TV’s speakers for optimal sound output. Slated to debut in a 2024 TCL TV model, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect not only promises a more immersive audio experience but also anticipates wider adaptation from other tech companies in the near future.
Unlike conventional audio systems that require a soundbar, AV receiver, or HDMI cable, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect operates wirelessly using the TV’s built-in hardware and software. This revolutionary technology is independent of the TV’s operating system, meaning it could potentially be integrated into any smart TV, regardless of whether it runs on Google TV, Roku, or any other software. However, the one stipulation is that the TV must utilize the latest Dolby multi-stream decoder. This technological leap is set to offer a new level of flexibility and convenience in home audio systems, changing how we perceive and experience sound in our homes.
Dolby Labs Unveils New Home Theater Technology: Dolby Atmos FlexConnect
Dolby Laboratories is revolutionizing home theater setups with its latest innovation, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect. This advanced technology enables users to place wireless speakers anywhere in the room with convenient ease. The built-in microphones in a compatible TV will automatically calibrate these speakers to work in unison with the TV’s speakers, ensuring the entire setup delivers optimal sound quality. This new technology is set to debut in a yet-to-be-announced 2024 TCL TV, with other manufacturers expected to incorporate support for Dolby Atmos FlexConnect.
Revolutionizing Home Audio Systems
What makes Dolby Atmos FlexConnect special is its wireless capability and utilization of the TV’s built-in software and hardware. This eliminates the need for a soundbar or AV receiver as the central unit and does away with the need for an HDMI cable to transmit the audio signal to an external device. Furthermore, the technology doesn’t depend on the TV’s operating system, enabling it to be integrated into any smart TV software, granted that the TV utilizes the latest Dolby multi-stream decoder.
Universal Compatibility with Limitless Possibilities
Unlike existing audio platforms, such as Sonos, DTS Play-Fi, and WiSA, which rely on Wi-Fi and compatible software and hardware, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect is connection and hardware-agnostic. This means that Dolby leaves the decisions regarding the choice of speakers and wireless technology up to the TV manufacturer. Theoretically, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect can support an unlimited number of wireless speakers or channels, but the actual limitations will likely be determined by the processing capabilities of the TV’s internal hardware.
Enhancing the Audio Experience
Dolby Atmos FlexConnect offers several key benefits. These include the ability to add accessory wireless speakers to a Dolby Atmos-enabled TV, enhancing the system’s audio performance, and the flexibility to position speakers anywhere in the room without compromising audio quality. The setup process is quick and straightforward, with no additional equipment or cables required. Dolby’s acoustic mapping technology identifies each wireless speaker’s location in the room and automatically calibrates the system to ensure optimal audio performance.
The Future of Home Theater Systems
While several Dolby Atmos soundbars from manufacturers like Sony, LG, Samsung, Sennheiser, Bose, and Sonos have microphone-based calibration systems similar to Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, they are typically more strict about the number of speakers that can be used. More details about TCL’s implementation of Dolby Atmos FlexConnect will be revealed during the company’s 2023 global flagship product launch.
Takeaways: The introduction of Dolby Atmos FlexConnect is set to redefine the home theater experience, providing flexibility, ease of setup, and high-quality audio. It is an exciting development that puts the power of customization into the hands of the user. However, the successful implementation of this technology will depend on the TV manufacturers’ ability to effectively incorporate it into their products. As we await more details, one thing is clear – the future of home sound systems is about to become a lot more flexible and convenient.
