In 2023, Google and Samsung joined hands to develop a new open-source spatial audio technology to rival Dolby Atmos called IAMF (Immersive Audio Model and Formats). And at CES 2024, the Korean tech giant provided an update on their work to create a royalty-free alternative to Dolby Atmos.
As per the details, the Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF) audio technology or a royalty-free alternative to Dolby Atmos will be rolled out to TVs, YouTube, and more in 2024. Simultaneously, the firm also stated that the IAMF could not be the final name, to show up in Samsung and Google devices and services later in 2024.
The IMAF could support Samsung TVs and audio systems, most likely soundbars. It may even include some older Samsung hardware that can be firmware upgraded. In addition, YouTube is also planning to support a new spatial audio format later this year, and it currently doesn’t support Dolby Atmos or Dolby Vision.
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Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF)
1. Ability to express Sound Vertically – Previous open-source audio codecs only supported horizontal sound expression. With IAMF technology, audio can now be expressed vertically so that sound is increasingly multi-directional.
2. AI-Based Scene Analysis and 3D Audio Effects – IAMF utilizes AI and deep-learning technology to analyze scenes and emphasize certain aspects of the content — adjusting audio levels for more enhanced sound throughout the viewing experience.
3. Highly Customized Audio – Users will be able to freely adjust sound according to their preferences with IAMF technology. Whether viewers are looking to amplify sound effects from an action scene or enhance dialogue, IAMF gives them the flexibility to customize content audio for a more personalized experience.
