Apple Music vs Spotify: The Battle for Immersive Sound Experience in 2019

In recent years, both Apple Music and Spotify have been pushing the boundaries of what it means to enjoy music on-the-go. With the advent of Spatial Audio, a technology developed by Apple, the game has changed entirely. But how does this new feature stack up against its rival, Spotify? In this article, we'll dive into the details and find out which platform reigns supreme when it comes to immersive sound experiences.

For those who are unfamiliar, Spatial Audio is a technology that creates an immersive audio environment by simulating the way sounds move in real-life spaces. This means that instead of just hearing music from left to right on your headphones, you'll feel like you're actually there, surrounded by instruments and vocals in three-dimensional space.

I recently had the opportunity to test out Spatial Audio on Apple's AirPods Max, and I was blown away by how much of a difference it made. Whether I was listening to chill indie or explosive hard rock, the effect was always impressive. But what really stood out was how well Spatial Audio tracked my head movements, keeping each instrument in its place as if I were at a live concert.

I also noticed that Spatial Audio highlighted vocal harmonies and small background instrumentation that I never picked up on when listening to the same songs on Spotify. It's like having a whole new pair of ears! For example, while listening to Turnstile's 'Glow On,' I was taken aback by the soaring anthemic chorus of the blistering punk song 'Endless.' The experience was truly breathtaking.

But what about compatibility? Unfortunately, Spatial Audio is only available on Apple headphones that support the technology. This means that if you're using non-Apple earbuds or headphones, you won't be able to take advantage of this feature. However, if you're an Apple fan with a supported pair of headphones (such as the AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, AirPods 3 or Beats Fit Pro), then you'll be in for a treat.

So how does Spatial Audio compare to Spotify? While both platforms offer high-quality audio, Spatial Audio is a game-changer when it comes to immersion. It's like having your own personal concert experience, minus the noise and crowds. Spotify, on the other hand, focuses more on its vast library of songs and discovery features.

In conclusion, Apple Music's Spatial Audio technology has set a new standard for immersive audio experiences in 2019. While compatibility is limited to certain Apple headphones, the effect is well worth the investment if you're looking for a truly unique listening experience. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just someone who loves great sound, Spatial Audio is definitely something to check out.

But what about Spotify? Is it still worth using? The answer is yes, especially if you're looking for a wide range of songs and discovery features. However, if you're willing to invest in Apple headphones that support Spatial Audio, then the experience is unparalleled. In the end, it's all about personal preference and what you value most in your music streaming experience.

Ultimately, the battle between Apple Music and Spotify will continue to rage on, with each platform trying to outdo the other in terms of features and sound quality. But for now, Apple Music's Spatial Audio technology has set a high bar that its competitor will struggle to match.

Apple music vs spotify 2019