Apple’s AirPod range is getting a new software upgrade. This upgrade will bring with it two long-awaited features – 3D spatial audio and auto-switching. The announcement came as part of the WWDC 2020 streamed event.
Apple has also announced that the iOS 14 update will bring keyboard and mouse controls to the iPad - you can read about that here.
Spatial audio (Apple AirPods Pro only)
This feature will bring simulated surround sound to the AirPods Pro, providing the user with access to the immersive audio of 5.1 and 7.1 speaker arrangements, and support of Dolby Atmos. This cinematic sound experience will also use Apple AI’s dynamic head tracking to follow the user’s head movements, maintaining the correct balance and simulated-speaker positioning (via MacRumours).
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Automatic switching
Automatic switching will allow AirPods to switch between Apple devices without user interaction. For example, if you’re working on a MacBook listening to some music and call comes in on your iPhone, the AirPods will automatically switch to this device. After the call has ended, you can pick up your iPad and start watching YouTube videos. Again, the AirPods will automatically transfer the connection over to this device.
The switching feature is sure to streamline the user experience for those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. This feature will work across second-gen AirPods, AirPods Pro, Powerbeats, Powerbeats Pro, and Beats Solo Pro.