Personalized Spatial Audio uses your iPhone's camera to scan your ears and create a custom sound profile just for you. It sounds weird, but it actually makes a noticeable difference in how immersive music and movies sound.
What You Need
- iPhone X or newer (needs the Face ID camera)
- iOS 16 or later
- AirPods Pro 3 (or Pro 2, Pro 1, AirPods 3, or Max)
How to Set It Up
- Make sure your AirPods are connected
- Open Settings and tap your AirPods at the top
- Tap Personalized Spatial Audio
- Tap Personalize Spatial Audio
- Take your AirPods out of your ears (the camera needs to see them)
- Follow the prompts to scan your ears
The app will have you slowly turn your head left and right while it captures your ear shape in 3D. Takes about 30 seconds total.
What It's Actually Doing
Your iPhone is mapping the unique curves and shapes of your ears. This matters because Spatial Audio simulates 3D sound, and everyone's ears filter sound differently. With your personal profile, the virtual speakers are "placed" more accurately for your specific head.
Privacy Stuff (If You Care)
Apple says:
- All processing happens on your phone
- No ear photos are stored
- Your profile is encrypted end-to-end
- Apple can't see it
Using It Day-to-Day
Once set up, it just works. But to toggle Spatial Audio:
- Open Control Center (swipe down from top right)
- Long-press the volume slider
- Tap the Spatial Audio button
If it's blue and animated, it's working. If it's blue but not moving, the content you're watching doesn't support Spatial Audio.
Does It Work With Everything?
Nope. Only content with Spatial Audio support:
- Apple TV+ shows and movies
- Some Netflix and Disney+ content
- Apple Music songs with Dolby Atmos
- Some games
Regular stereo music won't suddenly become 3D (though there's a separate stereo-to-Spatial Audio feature you can turn on).
