LG Eliminates DTS Support from 2025 OLED TVs, Paving Way for Eclipsa Audio Integration
LG has quietly removed DTS support from its 2025 television lineup, as revealed by detailed examinations of the new LG G5 OLED model. This change was identified through an analysis of the TV’s EDID settings, highlighting a significant shift in LG's audio strategy. Previously, LG had phased out DTS in 2020 but reinstated it for the 2023 and 2024 models, making this latest removal unexpected for audiophiles accustomed to the brand’s fluctuating support.
Despite the absence of DTS, LG ensures that surround sound capabilities remain robust through continued support for Dolby audio formats. However, the industry is observing a potential pivot toward Google's newly introduced Eclipsa Audio. Google showcased Eclipsa Audio on a prototype LG TV, signaling possible widespread adoption among major TV manufacturers. Samsung, for instance, has announced plans to integrate Eclipsa Audio aggressively across its TV and soundbar products, starting with the Q-990F soundbar.
The discontinuation of DTS support also impacts the compatibility with IMAX Enhanced content on platforms like Disney+. Xperi, the parent company of DTS, had indicated that support for IMAX Enhanced/DTS:X Profile 2 would not extend to LG’s 2025 models. Consequently, users seeking IMAX Enhanced experiences might need to consider alternatives, as only select recent models from TCL, Hisense, and Sony currently offer this feature.
In addition to audio format changes, LG has made other notable adjustments, such as dropping built-in support for ATSC 3.0/NextGen TV in 2024. However, the company continues to incorporate WiSA support in its higher-end TVs, enabling compatibility with wireless speaker systems. The future remains uncertain regarding whether DTS will also be removed from LG’s soundbar offerings, leaving consumers to watch for further announcements.
Overall, LG's decision to eliminate DTS from its 2025 TV models reflects a strategic realignment in response to evolving audio technologies and industry standards. While Dolby formats remain a staple, the introduction of alternatives like Eclipsa Audio may redefine the audio landscape for LG and its competitors in the coming years.