Sennheiser says the partnership with Samsung will add 'credibility' to its 3D audio project.
At CES earlier this year, Sennheiser unveiled the AMBEO 3D Smart Earbuds that support 3D audio. The technology is believed to be the closest to how human ears function and has higher potential use cases in the AR/VR segment. Sennheiser has already partnered with Apple to provide 3D audio experience to iOS users. However, the reach of Android being much wider when it comes to smartphones, Sennheiser is now looking to the market with a partnership with Samsung.
Sennheiser has tied up with Samsung to bring 3D sound to Android devices. Using the technology, users can not only listen to but even capture 3D sound. Usually, it is the smartphone or phablet in question comes inbuilt with two microphones, allowing for capture of sound from different angles and providing the user a 3D experience. However, the AMBEO 3D Smart Earbuds come with dual inbuilt microphones, helping record sound and create a 3D effect.
Samsung recently acquired the audio giant Harman. Also, Samsung’s latest S8 series flagship phones come with Harman’s AKG earphones. It is unclear how the new partnership with Sennheiser will impact Harman’s market. Will Samsung and Sennheiser launch the Android version of AMBEO 3D Smart Earbuds as a standalone product or will the earphones come bundled with a Samsung product? While Galaxy S8 and S8+ are less likely to see the new audio pairing, upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note 8 might have the new earphones bundled.
Samsung’s partnership with Sennheiser could also indicate the brand’s attempts to make further inroads in AR/VR segment. Samsung has been trying hard to stay on top of the game with increasing competition from other brands. Samsung recently launched Bixby AI with Galaxy S8 series devices and with the pressure on Galaxy Note 8 to surpass Galaxy Note 7 expectations, Samsung seems to be raising the bar. ALSO READ: Google shortlists the best Android apps for 2017 Google Play Awards
Most smartphone makers are now exploring the realm of 3D sound. HMD Global, the current manufacturer of Nokia branded smartphones, unveiled Nokia OZO, 3D audio technology. The Nokia 9, the next Nokia flagship model, is rumored to launch with Nokia OZO. The phone will come with dual microphones, allowing for capture and playback of 3D sound.