ITU approves Ultra HD sound

The International Telecommunications Union-ITU has given its recommendation to a new series of audio standards designed to bring the listening experience closer to that of real life.

ITU-R BS.2088-0 would sit alongside the developing Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV) video standards.

According to the ITU, the new global standards will facilitate the production and exchange of advanced audio files by allowing a single file to carry a complete audio programme containing audio samples as well as metadata for any combination of object, channel and scene-based audio. The new file format was developed based on the existing and widely used RIFF/WAV file format in order to facilitate its application and implementation.

“The role that sound plays in the media is under-estimated,” said François Rancy, Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau. “The work of ITU, along with other standards bodies, is creating a very exciting future for audio production, delivery and programming.”

Future technical capabilities for audio will also allow viewers to select their own menu of services, allowing them to be able to decide on and adjust the level of immersive sound in their living rooms, creating dynamic sound imaging.