Following StereoNET’s earlier report on Dolby Atmos becoming standard across Cadillac’s 2026 EV line-up, the immersive audio format is now hitting the road with another luxury marque. This time, it's Audi embracing spatial sound, beginning with the Q7, Q8, A8, and e-tron GT.

The collaboration sees a specially tailored version of the Bang & Olufsen Premium 3D Sound System integrated into these vehicles. This system uses advanced speaker placement—up to 23 speakers in higher-end configurations—and psychoacoustic algorithms to recreate a surround sound bubble around all occupants. The result is a convincing three-dimensional sound field that complements Dolby Atmos playback, delivering greater height, depth and spatial precision.

For those less acquainted with the format, Dolby Atmos was originally developed for cinema, where its three-dimensional, object-based approach to sound redefined the film experience. But Atmos has since grown far beyond the theatre. It's now a fixture in music, gaming, streaming video, and increasingly, automotive audio.

Unlike traditional surround sound systems that assign audio to specific channels or speakers, Atmos treats individual sounds as “objects” that can be placed and moved freely in a 3D space, including overhead. This makes for a much more immersive and lifelike listening experience, particularly in a car's acoustic environment.

Dolby says this approach allows artists to express their creative vision more completely, drawing listeners deeper into the music. The format’s momentum in the music industry is undeniable: 93% of Billboard’s Top 100 artists in 2024 released music mastered in Dolby Atmos, and a growing catalogue of new tracks and remasters is now streaming on platforms such as Tidal, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.

Drivers and passengers in supported Audi models will be able to access Dolby Atmos music natively through the vehicle’s multimedia interface (MMI), thanks to built-in support for streaming services and Audi's Application Store.

This functionality is part of Audi connect, the brand’s integrated digital ecosystem. Audi connect combines navigation, entertainment, real-time traffic data, internet access, and smartphone integration, allowing seamless over-the-air updates and app connectivity across regions. For Dolby Atmos-equipped vehicles, it also ensures easy access to compatible music streaming services.

Dolby Atmos support will be rolled out across all Audi Connect markets globally, with availability starting in July 2025. While initially limited to Audi’s flagship models, the move reflects a broader trend in the industry—high-resolution, spatial audio is fast becoming a key selling point in the premium in-car experience.

Pricing for Dolby Atmos-equipped sound systems will vary by region and model variant, and local availability may differ. Stay tuned to StereoNET for further updates.

Continue the Discussion