Spatialize Stereo on iOS 15 – Why And How To Use It

The option to spatialize stereo iOS 15 first appeared in beta builds back in June this year, but is it worth sacrificing the reliability of standard stereo audio? From a technical standpoint, things such as spatial audio are a layer of audio manipulation that emulates a surround sound experience via stereo earbuds or similar. It’s an emulation of the real thing that does have its benefits in spacing out audio in relation to you by creating a surround sound virtual environment.

For those wondering about Apple Music’s Spatial Audio, this isn’t the same feature. Spatial Audio supports Dolby Atmos and its own audio technology to create 3D audio experiences that move around you. Spatialize Stereo is literally trying to turn a stereo experience into a static surround sound experience, but it doesn’t support Dolby Atmos and you need either AirPods Pro or AirPods Max to use it.

Whilst some users are happy with the additional features, audio engineers and audiophiles are deeming Spatialize Stereo as an audio gimmick that layers audio distortion on top of carefully engineered stereo audio. If you have the equipment to try it, make your own mind up and see for yourself.

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