For the moment, few people can enjoy spatial audio because not many applications are yet compatible. Nevertheless, this approach is sure to develop alongside the metaverse concept, which involves creating particularly immersive virtual-reality experiences.

In theory, spatial audio lets listeners enjoy unparalleled sound quality, no matter how they might position or move their heads, with audio that sounds like you’re genuinely in the middle of a crowd or a game – the idea being that sound comes from all directions, and that listeners are in the midst of it all.

This concept was introduced earlier this year by Apple, via Apple Music. To try it, you need compatible headphones, in this case the AirPods Pro or Max.

The options are currently quite sparse – Apple Music and Netflix have some compatible content – as the phenomenon is still in its infancy.

With the concept of the metaverse, however, spatial audio makes sense. Experiencing a shared virtual world can take different forms, from attending a concert or dancing in a nightclub as an avatar, walking virtually in the jungle or, more mundanely, holding a meeting between colleagues in a virtual office.

In all cases, 3D sound will help give the illusion of being there for real. It is only a matter of time before more applications and devices take on this unique audio form to give listeners, truly, the best auditory experience.