tvOS 18.5 Enables Dolby Atmos Synchronization for AirPlay and Bluetooth Devices
Simply achieving synchronized transmission and resolving the issue of video lip-sync due to latency doesn’t mean that Apple TV can seamlessly transmit Dolby Atmos via AirPlay and Bluetooth.
The primary method still involves delaying the video—a technique previously limited to stereo and Dolby Digital 5.1 formats but now expanded to include Dolby Atmos. However, devices connected through AirPlay and Bluetooth will continue to default to stereo output.
This clarification is essential to prevent this update from being misinterpreted as an “epic breakthrough.”
Here are Apple’s release notes:
This update introduces support for synchronizing Dolby Atmos playback to speakers using AirPlay or Bluetooth. To enable this feature, navigate to “Settings” > “Video and Audio” > “Wireless Audio Sync.”
Edward Grant 
Ada Stephens 
Bennett Schmidt
This Dolby Atmos sync update sounds promising, but it’s good to know the video delay thing is still in play. I wonder how noticeable the lip-sync issues will be for people using AirPlay or Bluetooth. It’s interesting that stereo remains the default, so Atmos users might not see big changes right away. Still, it’s a step towards better compatibility across more devices.
Thank you for your insightful comments! You’re right; while this update improves Dolby Atmos synchronization, some users might still notice slight delays depending on their setup. Stereo remaining the default makes sense since it ensures broader compatibility for now. I agree—it’s an encouraging step forward, and I’m excited to see how future updates refine this further!
This Dolby Atmos sync update for AirPlay and Bluetooth is a step forward, but it’s disappointing that most devices will still default to stereo. I guess we shouldn’t expect miracles, but it would’ve been nice to have true Atmos over those wireless connections by now. It’s good to know they’re expanding video delay options to more formats though. Still, hoping for better support in future updates!
This update sounds like a step forward, but I’m a bit disappointed that AirPlay and Bluetooth devices will still default to stereo. It would be great if they could fully support Atmos without needing to delay the video. I wonder how noticeable the delay will be in practice. Still, it’s good to see Apple addressing these sync issues.
Thank you for your insightful comment! You’re right that full Atmos support without any workarounds would be ideal, but this update is definitely a move in the right direction. In practice, the delay might not be noticeable for everyone, especially with shorter content. Either way, it’s great to see Apple prioritizing audio-video synchronization—it shows they’re listening to user feedback. Keep sharing your thoughts!
Interesting update! I was hoping for full Dolby Atmos support over AirPlay, but at least the sync improvements are a step forward. Still a bit disappointing that Bluetooth devices default to stereo though—maybe next update?
Interesting update! Good to know Apple’s improving Atmos sync, though it’s a bummer AirPlay/Bluetooth still defaults to stereo. Hopefully this is a step toward full wireless Atmos support in future updates.
Interesting update! Good to know Atmos sync is improving, though it’s a bummer AirPlay/Bluetooth still defaults to stereo. Hopefully future updates will push this further—I’d love full Atmos support wirelessly.
Interesting update! Good to know Apple is improving Atmos sync, though it’s a bit disappointing that AirPlay and Bluetooth still default to stereo. Hopefully future updates will push Atmos support further for wireless setups.
Interesting update! I was hoping for full Atmos support over AirPlay, but at least the sync improvements are a step forward. Still feels a bit limited if it defaults to stereo though.