This is pretty nifty.
Apple on Monday released version 3A283 of its firmware for its AirPods and AirPods Pro earbuds on Monday. The new version includes spatial audio and automatic device switching for the devices.
The spatial audio feature is exclusive to AirPods Pro, and the toggle is accessible via Control Center when your AirPods Pro are connected. In Control Center, simply long-press on the volume slider and look for the spatial audio toggle. You should also find spatial audio controls in the Bluetooth section of the Settings app.
Apple has stated that the spatial audio feature uses directional audio filters to “play sounds virtually anywhere in space, creating an immersive sound experience.” This will put surround channels exactly in the right spot, even as you turn your head or move your device.
Apple’s exact description of the technology:
Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking brings the movie theater experience right to your AirPods Pro.11 By applying directional audio filters and subtly adjusting the frequencies each ear receives, spatial audio can place sounds virtually anywhere in space, creating an immersive surround sound experience. Using the gyroscope and accelerometer in your AirPods Pro and your iPhone, spatial audio tracks the motion of your head as well as your device, compares the motion data, and then remaps the sound field so that it stays anchored to your device even as your head moves.
The automatic device feature, which is included with the firmware update, allows your AirPods to switch between your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and Apple Watch paired to the same iCloud account.
Both of these new features require iOS 13, iPadOS 14, watchOS 7, tvOS 14, or macOS Big Sur to function. The AirPods firmware update is rolling out today, and you can check your version by pairing your AirPods to your iPhone or iPad, opening the Settings app, choosing Bluetooth, and looking for your AirPods connection.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via 9to5Mac