Dolby Atmos Expands to 150+ Car Models at CES 2026

Dolby Laboratories demonstrated substantial growth in automotive entertainment systems at the ongoing Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, with Dolby Atmos currently incorporated in over 150 vehicle models spanning 35 global automotive manufacturers, ranging from premium to entry-level categories, the company announced on Wednesday. The firm revealed multiple major auto collaborations and technological implementations during the Las Vegas technology exhibition.

Mercedes-Benz and Spatial Audio Integration

Mercedes-Benz was amongst the first car manufacturers to activate Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos in Apple CarPlay, with functionality being deployed across its newest range including the all-new electric GLC, CLA, and GLB models. The implementation lets motorists access Dolby Atmos content from platforms such as Apple Music directly via their vehicle's sound system.

Premium Visual Technology in Vehicles

NIO presented its ET9 model at CES incorporating both Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision technologies, while Mahindra unveiled the XUV 7XO as India's first vehicle equipped with both systems. The addition of Dolby Vision in automobiles signifies an extension of the company's premium visual technology beyond domestic entertainment into automotive display systems.

Qualcomm Partnership Expands Platform Integration

Dolby additionally announced a partnership with Qualcomm to incorporate its automotive products into Qualcomm's Gen 5 Snapdragon Automotive platform. The integration encompasses Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Dolby AC-4, the company's audio codec that can reduce audio data costs for OEMs by up to 60 per cent whilst maintaining streaming quality.

Pioneer Launches First Aftermarket Dolby Atmos Receiver

Addressing the aftermarket sector, Pioneer launched SPHERA, characterised as the world's first aftermarket in-dash receiver featuring Dolby Atmos. The system has been configured for compact installations with as few as four audio channels, rendering the immersive audio technology available to vehicles already in circulation rather than restricting it to new vehicle acquisitions.

“At Dolby, we’re building technologies and partnerships that make premium experiences accessible to all, expanding how and where audiences can enjoy their favorite content,” John Couling, Senior Vice President of Entertainment at Dolby Laboratories, said in a statement. 

“From the living room to the car and beyond, we’re bringing visions to life for creators across film, music, sports, and social, reimagining how people see, hear, and feel entertainment.”