Install iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and tvOS 18 to stream spatial audio from an iPhone or iPad to a HomePod speaker, Apple TV or compatible third-party Hi-Fi equipment.
Apple has upgraded AirPlay to support spatial audio. If you have a HomePod speaker or AirPlay-compatible equipment, you’ll be able to stream spatial audio from your iPhone or iPad. AirPlay lets you wirelessly beam photos and videos from Apple devices to one or more other Apple devices or AirPlay-compatible speakers and TVs.
Spatial audio content is available in Apple’s Music and TV apps and third-party streaming apps such as Netflix, Max, etc. The feature uses a computational audio algorithm along with filters and effects to process source audio to make it seem as if the sound is all around you.
AirPlay now supports spatial audio
“AirPlay adds Spatial Audio so users can get an immersive audio experience, including support for Dolby Atmos, when using AirPlay to stream audio from iPhone and iPad to HomePod and compatible third-party audio equipment,” according to a press release in the Apple Newsroom highlighting everything new in tvOS 18.
tvOS 18 packs an improved Enhanced Dialogue feature, a new InSight feature that displays timely information about cast and music in real-time, smarter subtitles, 21:9 support for playing movies and shows on projectors, new screen savers, etc.
Apple also refreshed its Home app on iPhone, iPad and Mac with a new guest access feature, hands-free door unlocking, support for robot vacuum cleaners, and more.
The system requirements for AirPlay spatial audio
To AirPlay spatial audio, your iPhone and iPad must run iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. Your HomePod must use HomePod Software 18 and your Apple TV tvOS 18.
iOS 18 and other required operating systems are currently in a beta phase that will last throughout the summer. The updates are set to launch to the public in the fall.