Get ready to rethink your audio experience, because Samsung and Google are shaking up the industry with the second generation of their Eclipsa 3D Audio format. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the game-changer that finally challenges Dolby Atmos’ dominance? Let’s dive in.
Not satisfied with just competing in the high dynamic range video space with their HDR10+ Advanced format, Samsung has now teamed up with Google to expand their Eclipsa Audio format, first introduced in early 2025. This move positions Eclipsa as a potential rival to Dolby Atmos, but with a twist—it’s royalty-free and built on open-source technology. And this is the part most people miss: Eclipsa 2.0 isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of how sound can be designed and experienced.
Scheduled to arrive in the near future, Eclipsa 2.0 builds on its predecessor by breaking the current 28-channel limit and embracing a truly “object-based” approach. This means sound designers can craft intricate soundscapes, placing effects with pinpoint accuracy. Imagine a raindrop falling on your left, a bird chirping behind you, and a car zooming past—all with lifelike precision. A recent demo I attended showcased these improvements, leaving no doubt that Eclipsa 2.0 is a significant leap forward.
At its core, Eclipsa Audio is a 3D, 360-degree spatial audio technology based on the open-source Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF) specifications. Its multi-channel architecture allows users to customize their listening experience, whether they’re in a home theater, gaming setup, or on a mobile device. Unlike Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, Eclipsa’s royalty-free model makes it accessible to a broader range of creators and platforms. While it may not yet have the industry-wide support of its competitors, it’s already available on YouTube—a platform where its open-source nature is a game-changer for content creators. On the hardware side, Samsung TVs and Harman audio products, including Samsung soundbars, already support the format.
Here’s where it gets even more interesting: The ecosystem backing Eclipsa is growing, thanks in part to the IAMF specification being adopted by the Alliance for Open Media in 2023. This global consortium includes heavyweights like Netflix, Meta, and, of course, Samsung and Google. With Google’s recent release of an open authoring tool for Eclipsa Audio/IAMF content creation and confirmation of Android OS support, the format’s future looks brighter than ever.
One of the most significant developments for Eclipsa Audio is its new certification program, launched in October under the HDR10+ LLC and tested by the Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA). This program ensures consistent quality and compatibility across devices and platforms. Unsurprisingly, the first TVs to meet these rigorous standards are from Samsung. Eclipsa has always adhered to ITU-R BS.1770-4 loudness standards, ensuring consistent audio levels across streaming platforms, but this certification takes consistency to a whole new level.
During a recent demo, I experienced the new Eclipsa Audio system through a Samsung TV paired with a Samsung surround soundbar and rear speaker setup. The improvement over the original 2025 version was staggering. The three-dimensional space felt more defined, sound effects were placed with greater precision, and transitions were smoother and more dynamic. Most impressively, the soundstage didn’t rely on a “sweet spot”—it delivered exceptional audio quality no matter where I sat.
But here’s the question: Can Eclipsa Audio dethrone Dolby Atmos, or will it carve out its own niche? With its open-source, royalty-free model and growing support, it’s certainly a format to watch. Keep an eye on my Forbes channel (https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnarcher/) for updates, especially as we approach CES 2026, where I suspect we’ll hear even more about Eclipsa’s adoption. What do you think? Is Eclipsa the future of audio, or will Dolby Atmos remain king? Let’s discuss in the comments!
