Netflix brings Dolby Atmos support, but your phone will probably never get it

Netflix has announced Dolby Atmos support starting with the critically-acclaimed Okja, but the number of compatible devices is extremely limited.

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December 4, 2016

From delivering "low-resolution" DVDs to offering 4K HDR content with wide color gamut, Netflix has come a long way in terms of visual standards, but what about audio enhancements? While major TV manufacturers are busy advertising just how amazing their screens are, it seems audio standards are often neglected despite the fact that they're just as important in media-consumption. Well, Netflix is looking to change that with the introduction of Dolby Atmos support for select titles.

Starting with Okja, a critically-acclaimed movie directed by none other than Bong Joon Ho (the man behind Snowpiercer and Mother), Netflix will offer Dolby Atmos support:

Much like how 4K and HDR bring more stunning and realistic visuals to the screen, Dolby Atmos delivers captivating sound that places and moves audio anywhere in the room, including overhead, to bring entertainment to life all around you, all in the comfort of your own living room.

It'll also come to BLAME!, Death Note, Bright, and Wheelman, all of which are set to be released this year. Unfortunately, however, Dolby Atmos requires certain hardware, so it's unlikely that you'll be able to take advantage of it on your Android phone or Chromecast device. For now, the only devices that can stream these titles in the Dolby Atmos format are Microsoft's Xbox One and Xbox One S, and you'll need the "4 Screens and Ultra HD" plan as well as the right receiver and speaker configuration. For full information on how to get Dolby Atmos working, visit Netflix's website. The global streaming giant says that it will expand the list to include 2017 LG OLED TVs in the future, the only line-up from the South Korean electronics company to support Dolby's new audio technology.

For now, the only devices that can stream these titles in the Dolby Atmos format are Microsoft's Xbox One and Xbox One S.

Dolby Atmos and Android

Now, there are Android phones and tablets that already support Dolby Atmos (albeit extremely limited) like the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus, and the chances are, the list will grow as HDR and enhanced audio experiences become more of a differentiating factor in the oversaturated smartphone market. However, I wouldn't get my hopes up for future Galaxy devices as Samsung is unlikely to include Dolby's technology in its phones: after all, Samsung completed its purchase of Harman, and given its reluctance to support Dolby Vision, there's no reason why the company would suddenly want to submit to Dolby's requirements and fees.

Have you experienced Dolby Atmos on your Xbox yet? Do you think audio enhancements are long overdue in smartphones? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

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