Dolby Access is going to change the way you hear your Xbox One games

Dolby Access might be the best-kept secret of E3 2017. Actually, that distinction belongs to Metroid Prime 4, but nevertheless, it’s a nifty app targeted specifically at Xbox One (including Xbox One S and Xbox One X) and Windows 10 users who want to up their game with 360-degree surround sound on the cheap.

While the app’s quiet release to the Windows Store dates back to the launch of Creators Update, Dolby is bringing it back up to the surface at E3 with the announcement of dedicated Atmos support for Gears of War 4 and Crackdown 3 coming soon, with many more to support the tech later on. 

You’ll need Atmos-enabled hardware to get the absolute most out of the audio track-packed sound. But if you’re not in a position to make that investment, Dolby Access basically has your name on it. It can inject Dolby Atmos spatial sound into your PC and console audio mix without the need for any expensive audio equipment whatsoever. 

With the software activated and the rich sound profile woven into your music, movies and games, you’re basically getting the best of Atmos delivered straight to the gear that you already own. The apps aims to squeeze even more from the sound design found within your favorite virtual worlds. Given that a lot of the finer audio details in games tend to get lost in the compressed mix, spatial surround sound can enhance your performance and it just makes gaming more fun, too. That’s a good thing.

Better yet, it’s a cheap enhancement at $14.99—a pretty small price to pay for Atmos in your current headphones. But best of all, there’s a 30-day free trial to test it out.

This one’s for the gamers who can’t afford costly audio equipment, but want to experience all-encompassing sound for their gear. And at that, it’s a great move on Dolby’s part.

(Image credit: Dolby)

• E3 is the world's largest exhibition for the games industry, stuffed full of the latest and greatest games, consoles, and gaming hardware. TechRadar is reporting live from Los Angeles all week to bring you the very latest from the show floor. Head to our dedicated E3 2017 hub to see all the new releases, along with TechRadar's world-class analysis and buying advice about the next year in gaming.

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