Dolby.com

Dolby.com

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

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

Dolby Audio

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

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

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

Applications and Reach

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

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

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

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.