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Does Netflix play in Atmos?

Published in Netflix Audio Quality 3 mins read

Yes, Netflix does offer content with Dolby Atmos audio, providing an immersive high-quality sound experience for compatible titles and setups.

Netflix integrates Dolby Atmos into many of its high-quality audio offerings, allowing viewers to experience three-dimensional soundscapes that place audio effects precisely around and above them. This enhances the viewing experience by making sound more dynamic and realistic, similar to what you might experience in a cinema.

How to Experience Dolby Atmos on Netflix

To enjoy Dolby Atmos on Netflix, you need more than just a subscription; specific hardware and a suitable internet connection are essential. The service makes high-quality audio, including Dolby Atmos, available on a wide range of titles, alongside 5.1 surround sound.

Requirements for Netflix Dolby Atmos

To stream content with Dolby Atmos audio, your setup must meet certain criteria:

  • Netflix Subscription Plan: A Netflix Premium plan is typically required, as it supports Ultra HD streaming, which often accompanies high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos.
  • Netflix-Capable Device with Atmos Support: You need a device that can stream Netflix and is capable of processing Dolby Atmos. This includes:
    • Select smart TVs
    • Streaming media players (e.g., Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Cube, Nvidia Shield TV)
    • Gaming consoles (e.g., Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5)
    • Specific computers with Dolby Atmos support
  • Dolby Atmos Audio System: Your viewing device must be connected to an audio system that supports Dolby Atmos. This could be:
    • A Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar.
    • An AV receiver with Dolby Atmos capabilities connected to an array of speakers, including overhead or up-firing speakers.
  • High-Speed Internet Connection: A stable and robust internet connection is crucial for streaming high-quality audio and video without buffering. Netflix recommends a minimum of 25 Mbps for Ultra HD content, which typically includes Dolby Atmos.
  • Content Availability: The specific Netflix show or movie you want to watch must have a Dolby Atmos soundtrack available. Netflix indicates Atmos availability with a specific icon on the title's details page.

Key Components for Dolby Atmos on Netflix

The following table summarizes the key components required for a seamless Dolby Atmos experience on Netflix:

Requirement Description
Netflix Premium Plan Essential for accessing Ultra HD content and high-quality audio options.
Compatible Streaming Device A device specifically designed or updated to support Dolby Atmos audio output, such as certain smart TVs, streaming sticks, or gaming consoles.
Dolby Atmos Audio Setup An audio system that can decode and play Dolby Atmos, including soundbars with up-firing speakers or an AV receiver with a 5.1.2 (or greater) speaker configuration (with two overhead/up-firing channels).
HDMI Connection Ensure your devices are connected via an HDMI cable, preferably HDMI 2.0 or higher, capable of transmitting high-bandwidth audio and video signals (including ARC or eARC for audio return from TV to receiver/soundbar).
Reliable Internet A consistent internet speed, ideally 25 Mbps or higher, to prevent buffering and ensure smooth playback of high-resolution video and audio.
Dolby Atmos Content The specific TV show or movie on Netflix must have a Dolby Atmos soundtrack. You can usually identify this by looking for the Dolby Atmos logo on the title's description page within the Netflix app.

By ensuring your setup meets these requirements, you can unlock the full potential of Dolby Atmos on Netflix, transforming your home viewing into a truly cinematic audio experience.