Surround Sound On Laptops And Phones Could Be Audio’s Next Big Thing

Forbes - Mar 9th, 2025
Open on Forbes

In the rapidly evolving landscape of media consumption, the shift from communal to personal viewing experiences has fundamentally altered how audiences engage with video content. With the decline of traditional TV and the rise of personal devices like smartphones and tablets, streaming now accounts for the majority of internet traffic. This transition has highlighted the disparity between high-quality visual displays and often subpar audio experiences, spurring a wave of innovation in audio technology. Companies like Audioscenic are pioneering the development of AI-driven solutions that deliver immersive 3D sound from compact devices, addressing the limitations of traditional audio setups and headphones.

This technological advancement is not only reshaping the entertainment industry but also impacting various aspects of daily life, including gaming and remote communication. The introduction of AI-powered audio systems, such as Audioscenic's Amphi, offers a user-friendly, adaptive alternative to conventional surround sound systems, enhancing the listening experience without the need for technical expertise. As the industry moves towards format-agnostic solutions, the potential for universal spatial audio standards could revolutionize how we experience sound across different platforms, with initiatives like Google's Eclipsa paving the way for widespread adoption.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution in media consumption habits, focusing on the shift from communal TV viewing to personal device usage and the advancements in audio technology. It effectively captures the current trends and technological developments that are shaping consumer experiences. However, the piece could benefit from more balanced perspectives, as it predominantly highlights the benefits of new technologies without addressing potential drawbacks or alternative viewpoints. The lack of direct citations and transparency in sourcing slightly undermines the article's credibility. Despite these limitations, the content remains timely and relevant, engaging readers by exploring relatable changes in media consumption and the technological innovations driving these shifts.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article presents several factual claims regarding the evolution of media consumption habits, particularly the shift from communal TV watching to personal device viewing. It accurately captures the trend towards streaming services and the decline of traditional cable TV. However, specific statistics, such as the claim that streaming video accounts for more than 80% of all internet traffic, require verification and are not directly supported by cited sources. The claim about Netflix and Disney+ subscriber growth during the pandemic is plausible but needs precise figures for full accuracy. The discussion on audio technology challenges and innovations, including AI-powered spatial audio, is generally accurate but lacks detailed technical specifications and independent verification.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the technological evolution in media consumption and audio technology, providing a detailed account of changes over time. However, it lacks a balanced perspective by not considering potential downsides of these shifts, such as the impact on social interactions or the digital divide. The piece heavily emphasizes the benefits of new technologies without equally addressing potential drawbacks or alternative viewpoints, such as the continued relevance of traditional media for certain demographics.

8
Clarity

The article is well-written, with a clear and logical flow that makes it easy to follow. The language is accessible, and the structure effectively guides readers through the evolution of media consumption and audio technology. The tone is neutral, maintaining an informative stance throughout. However, the inclusion of more technical details or definitions could enhance comprehension for readers less familiar with the subject matter.

5
Source quality

The article does not cite specific sources or studies to support its claims, which affects the perceived reliability of the information. While it references general industry trends and technological advancements, the lack of direct attribution to authoritative sources or expert opinions weakens its source quality. The mention of companies like Audioscenic provides some credibility, but further details on their innovations and market position would enhance the article's authority.

4
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of disclosing the basis for its claims and the methodology used to gather information. There is no clear explanation of how conclusions were reached or what data supports the assertions made. The absence of conflict of interest disclosures, especially when discussing specific companies and technologies, further diminishes transparency. Readers are left without a clear understanding of the potential biases or influences behind the article's content.

Sources

  1. https://www.phonearena.com/news/phones-with-best-speakers-sound-quality_id132160
  2. https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-diversifies-ai-pc-lineup-with-new-galaxy-book5-pro-and-galaxy-book5-360
  3. https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/home-entertainment/best-sound-system/
  4. https://www.whathifi.com/best-buys/best-smartphones
  5. https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-pc-speakers/