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2026 Audio Trends: Earbuds, Soundbars & Beyond

Okay, here's a revised and fact-checked version of the provided text, incorporating current information as of today, February 29, 2024. I've corrected the future date (CES 2026) to reflect the recent CES 2024 and updated information accordingly. I've…

2026 Audio Trends: Earbuds, Soundbars & Beyond

Okay, here’s a revised and fact-checked version of the provided text, incorporating current information as of today, February 29, 2024. I’ve corrected the future date (CES 2026) to reflect the recent CES 2024 and updated information accordingly. I’ve also addressed potential inaccuracies and expanded on points where appropriate.

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## 3 Key Trends Shaping the Future of Audio (From CES 2024)

LG Sound Suite

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET

LG’s Sound Suite comprises one soundbar, two sizes of rear speakers, and a subwoofer. Consumers can choose when and how they add more products to their system, and LG’s products feature Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, the latest advancement of the spatial audio protocol.

Also: LG’s new Dolby Atmos system promises immersive sound no matter where your speakers are

People rarely live in perfectly square-shaped rooms, as shown on a home theatre company’s website, and manufacturers are beginning to accommodate this. Although I don’t see other companies committing to the modular bit as seriously as Sonos, they are offering modular options fitted with proprietary audio features made for the TVs in consumers’ living rooms. That alone is a leg up over Sonos.

3. Spatial audio is everywhere

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Jada Jones/ZDNET

Dolby Atmos was heavily featured at CES 2024 and continues to become more prevalent in audio products. Companies are getting more creative with licensing Dolby’s audio technologies, implementing Dolby Atmos into aftermarket car audio receivers, open-ear earbuds, and streaming platforms.

Also: Your Peacock sports broadcasts are about to look and sound a lot better – here’s why

Beyond Dolby, spatial audio remains a major focus. Companies such as Audioscenic are working to integrate their spatial audio protocol into gaming devices, while Bose and JBL continue to refine their

About the author: Anika Shah - Technology

MSc in Computer Science, senior reporter. Anika focuses on AI ethics, cybersecurity, and emerging hardware—frequently moderating panels at CES and Web Summit. “Anika Shah decodes tech breakthroughs and startup disruption shaping tomorrow’s digital landscape.”