Dolby Laboratories has announced a limited beta release of its new Dolby Axon desktop client software that brings surround sound voice technology to a chat room environment. Both in game and out, the software will enable gamers to naturally discern who is talking by the direction of his or her voice, and moreover, selectively listen to one of many conversations by focusing attention in a particular direction.
Because the software is based on the Dolby Axon 3D voice technology, users will be able to hear voice chat in surround sound-”minimizing the sensation that all voices seem to come from the same location. The new software is well-suited for chat room features in online multiplayer games, and has an easy-to-use graphical interface that allows users to create, join, and interact in visual chat rooms.
Beginning today, users can register for the limited beta release at http://axon.dolby.com. Dolby will issue invitations to join the beta program starting September 27.
“Dolby understands that people hear the world in surround sound, so it makes sense that we would enable this for an online world as well,” said Matt Tullis, Senior Marketing Manager for Games at Dolby Laboratories. “Whether it’s in online chat rooms or during actual game play, the ability to discern each other’s voices spatially translates into a much more enjoyable experience.”
