Paramount+ Introduces German Audio in 5.1 and Dolby Atmos

Paramount+ has officially launched German audio support in 5.1 surround sound, offering an enhanced viewing experience for German-speaking subscribers. This announcement comes just two weeks after the introduction of its Premium subscription model in Germany.

The streaming service, which debuted its Premium subscription on March 26, provides users with advanced features, including 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos sound for selected titles. Initially, users were surprised to find that the German audio was limited to stereo, despite subscribing to the Premium tier. Paramount+ acknowledged that this was an oversight and has since rectified the issue.

The Premium subscription, priced at EUR12.99 per month compared to the standard EUR7.99, allows streaming on up to four devices simultaneously, as opposed to two devices with the standard plan. It also claims to offer enhanced audio quality, featuring Dolby Atmos for select titles available in both English and German, contingent upon device compatibility and internet connection.

Paramount+ has provided a list of compatible devices on its support page, detailing which setups can deliver Dolby Atmos content. Currently, this information exclusively pertains to the English audio track, but updates regarding German audio support are expected soon.

Notable titles that feature both English and German Dolby Atmos tracks include 'IF: Imaginäre Freunde.' Testing on devices such as Apple TV 4K and Fire TV Cube has confirmed the availability of both sound options. Paramount+ joins the ranks of few streaming services, alongside Apple TV+ and Netflix, to offer German 3D sound.

However, not all titles are available in this enhanced audio format. For instance, 'Mission Impossible: Fallout' is only accessible with English 3D sound, as it was originally released without German Atmos audio on UHD-Blu-ray and Blu-ray Disc, even though it is available on iTunes for purchase or rental with such features.

Overall, the library of titles featuring 5.1 and Dolby Atmos sound remains limited. Paramount+ has indicated that it is committed to expanding its catalog of content available in premium audio quality. When a film or series is offered in these formats, it will be clearly indicated on the title's page with appropriate symbols or notes in the description.