Spatial audio is a type of sound technology that creates a 3D audio effect, making it seem like sound is coming from all around the listener. It involves the virtual placement of sound sources anywhere in three-dimensional space, including behind, above, or below the listener. Spatial audio can be experienced through headphones, speakers, or other audio devices.

Spatial audio works by mapping individual audio parts of a piece of content, such as dialog, sound effects, and music soundtrack, to specific points on a digital 3D space. The sound is then processed using head-related transfer functions (HRTF) filters and cross-talk cancellation techniques to mimic natural sound waves that emanate from a point in a 3D space. This allows the brain to be tricked using the ears and auditory nerves, making it seem like different sounds are coming from different 3D locations.

Spatial audio is available on various devices, including AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, Beats Fit Pro, Beats Studio Pro, and some iPhones and iPads. It can be turned on and off using the volume control or settings on the device. Spatial audio is used in movies, TV shows, music, and video games to create a more immersive experience for the listener.