Dolby.com[edit | edit source]

Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (commonly known as Dolby) is a British-American technology company specializing in audio noise reduction, audio encoding/compression, spatial audio, and HDR imaging technologies[1]. Founded in 1965 by Ray Dolby, the company has become a leader in innovative audio and visual technologies for cinema, home entertainment, mobile devices, and beyond.

Key Technologies and Products[edit | edit source]

Dolby has developed several groundbreaking technologies that have revolutionized the entertainment industry:

Dolby Audio[edit | edit source]

Dolby Audio™ is a set of robust technologies that deliver rich, clear, and powerful sound in cinemas, homes, and on mobile devices[7]. It encompasses various audio formats and technologies, including:

1. Dolby Digital: The first digital surround sound format, introduced in 1992[1]. 2. Dolby Atmos: An immersive, object-based sound format that allows for three-dimensional audio placement[4].

Dolby Vision[edit | edit source]

Dolby Vision® is an advanced HDR (High Dynamic Range) imaging technology that provides ultravivid picture quality with brighter brights, darker darks, and a remarkable color range[16]. It dynamically optimizes the image quality based on the viewer's device and platform[16].

Dolby Cinema[edit | edit source]

Dolby Cinema® combines Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technologies with inspired design to create a completely captivating cinematic experience[7].

Applications and Reach[edit | edit source]

Dolby technologies are widely used across various entertainment and communication platforms:

1. Cinema: Dolby has been a staple in movie theaters for decades, with technologies like Dolby Stereo, Dolby Digital, and now Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision[1].

2. Home Entertainment: Dolby technologies are integrated into TVs, soundbars, and other home theater equipment[17].

3. Music: Dolby Atmos Music provides an immersive listening experience for music lovers[7].

4. Gaming: Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision enhance gaming experiences with spatial audio and improved visuals[16].

5. Mobile Devices: Many smartphones and tablets support Dolby technologies for improved audio and video playback[7].

6. Broadcast and Streaming: Dolby Audio is used in many live broadcasts and streaming services[7].

Industry Impact and Achievements[edit | edit source]

Dolby has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry:

- The company has received 12 Academy Awards and 15 Emmy Awards for its technological contributions[7]. - Since 1977, nearly every movie that has won an Academy Award in the sound categories has featured Dolby technology[7]. - Dolby products and services are available in more than 90 countries and regions[7].

Recent Developments[edit | edit source]

Dolby continues to innovate and expand its technologies:

1. Dolby.io: In 2020, Dolby launched a developer platform aimed at providing developers self-service access to Dolby technologies through public APIs[1].

2. Automotive Integration: Dolby has partnered with car manufacturers to bring Dolby Atmos to vehicles[14].

3. Cloud Solutions: The company has introduced a comprehensive range of cloud video products and solutions[13].

Corporate Information[edit | edit source]

Dolby Laboratories is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with offices in over 20 countries worldwide[10]. The company went public in 2005 and is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DLB[1].

Dolby's mission is to transform the science of sight and sound into spectacular experiences for billions of people worldwide[20]. Through partnerships with creatives, developers, and businesses, Dolby continues to revolutionize entertainment and communications, shaping the future of audio and visual technologies.