After a delay, Google and Samsung will launch Eclipsa Audio in 2025 as a new 3D audio format to rival Dolby Atmos. Eclipsa will be available on YouTube and all 2025 Samsung TVs.
First announced at IAMF (Immersive Audio Model and Formats) in 2023, with plans for a 2024 launch later scrapped, Google and Samsung’s 3D audio format is now officially called Eclipsa Audio, as announced today ahead of CES 2025.
- "We are proud to lead the industry with the integration of Eclipsa Audio into our 2025 TV and soundbar lineup," said Taeyong Son, EVP and Head of the R&D Team, Visual Display Business, Samsung. "This innovation opens new possibilities for immersive audio experiences and reinforces our commitment to shaping the future of home entertainment."
Eclipsa Audio in 2025 Samsung TVs
Samsung confirmed that every 2025 TV range, from budget LCDs to flagship QD-OLED and 8K "QLED" LCD models, will support Eclipsa Audio.
Initially announced as royalty-free, open source and backed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOM) — the organization behind the AV1 video codec — Eclipsa will be showcased in a demo next week to FlatpanelsHD.
This launch is part of Google and Samsung's broader effort, codenamed Project Caviar, to challenge Dolby with Eclipsa Audio and HDR10+ as alternatives to Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, respectively.
Samsung's 2025 TVs will supports Eclipsa Audio. Photo: Samsung
Eclipsa Audio on YouTube
Starting this year, Google will allow content creators to upload videos with Eclipsa Audio to YouTube.
However, to experience it you will require a 2025 Samsung device, limiting adoption compared to Dolby Atmos, which is supported by most new devices and major streaming services, with YouTube being a notable exception.
- "We believe that Eclipsa Audio has the potential to change the way we experience sound," said Jim Bankoski, VP of Engineering, Google Chrome. "We are excited to see how the creator community uses it to create new and innovative audio experiences."
