Dolby Atmos, the immersive audio technology that creates a three-dimensional sound field, is coming to more living rooms with a new feature called FlexConnect. This technology will allow Dolby Atmos-enabled TVs to work with existing speakers and soundbars, creating a more immersive and flexible home theater experience.
What is FlexConnect?
FlexConnect is a new technology that Dolby announced at the IFA 2023 trade show in Berlin. It allows Dolby Atmos-enabled TVs to act as a hub for other speakers and soundbars, expanding the sound field and creating a more realistic and enveloping sound.
FlexConnect works by using the TV’s built-in speakers as height channels, which add vertical dimension to the sound. The TV can then wirelessly connect to other speakers and soundbars that support Dolby Atmos, such as the Sonos Arc or the LG SN11RG, and use them as front, side, or rear channels. This way, the TV can create a surround sound system without the need for wires or additional devices.
Why is FlexConnect important?
FlexConnect is important because it makes Dolby Atmos more accessible and adaptable to different living room setups. Dolby Atmos is a technology that enhances the audio quality and realism of movies, games, music, and other content by adding height information to the sound. This creates a 3D sound field that makes you feel like you are inside the scene.
However, to enjoy Dolby Atmos, you usually need a compatible device, such as a TV, a soundbar, or a receiver, and a set of speakers that can produce height effects. This can be expensive, complicated, or impractical for some users who have limited space or budget.
FlexConnect solves this problem by allowing users to use their existing speakers and soundbars with their Dolby Atmos-enabled TV. This way, they can enjoy a more immersive and flexible sound system without having to buy new equipment or run wires across their living room.
Which TVs support FlexConnect?
FlexConnect will debut on TCL’s 2024 television lineup, which was also announced at IFA 2023. TCL is one of the leading TV brands in the world, and it has been collaborating with Dolby for several years to bring Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos to its products.
TCL’s 2024 TVs will feature 8K resolution, mini-LED backlighting, quantum dot technology, and AI-enhanced picture quality. They will also support FlexConnect, making them the first TVs to offer this feature.
TCL said that its 2024 TVs will be available in early 2024 in various sizes and models. The prices and availability will vary depending on the region and market.
How can you enjoy FlexConnect?
To enjoy FlexConnect, you will need a Dolby Atmos-enabled TV that supports this feature, such as TCL’s 2024 TVs. You will also need other speakers or soundbars that support Dolby Atmos, such as the Sonos Arc or the LG SN11RG. You can then connect them wirelessly to your TV using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Once you have set up your FlexConnect system, you can enjoy Dolby Atmos content from various sources, such as streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, Blu-ray discs, or games consoles like Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5. You can also adjust the sound settings on your TV to optimize the sound quality and performance of your system.
FlexConnect is a new way to experience Dolby Atmos at home. It allows you to use your TV as a hub for other speakers and soundbars, creating a more immersive and flexible sound system. With FlexConnect, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the convenience of your TV’s built-in speakers and the quality of your external speakers.
