Pioneer has introduced Sphera, an aftermarket spatial audio in-dash receiver that delivers Dolby Atmos playback via Apple CarPlay without requiring a Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system. First previewed as a prototype at CES last year, Sphera enables streaming of music, audiobooks and podcasts in Dolby Atmos from supported services, delivering spatial audio using existing vehicle speakers.
“For over 80 years, Pioneer has achieved many technological firsts – from the world’s first car CD player to the first aftermarket CarPlay integration,” said Chris Ono, CEO and chairman of Pioneer Electronics. “Sphera is the next bold chapter in that legacy. Guided by our corporate mission, ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul’, we developed a product that brings the rich, detailed sound of Dolby Atmos that moves the soul, to a solution that can be installed in many vehicles on the road today. With Sphera, we are expanding access to immersive sound, allowing more drivers than ever to enjoy music with the clarity and emotion its creators intended.”
Optimized four-channel solution
Sphera incorporates Dolby technology to deliver a Dolby Atmos experience over four channels, using a vehicle’s existing front and rear speakers. Combined with Pioneer’s audio processing, the system manages sound reproduction to enable a practical, installation-ready upgrade path for adding spatial audio to many existing vehicles.
Autotuning technology
The solution integrates Pioneer’s Pure Autotuning technology, an in-vehicle calibration system engineered specifically for the acoustic challenges of the automobile interior. Vehicle cabins vary widely in size, shape and materials and aftermarket upgrades can further influence acoustical variables. To account for and adapt to these differences, the autotuning technology adjusts time alignment, frequency response and channel levels to optimize performance and place the listener at the acoustical center position.
Modern interface and installation-ready design
Sphera combines its audio features with a hardware and interface platform designed for automotive use. A 10.1in HD capacitive display provides clear visibility and responsive control, supported by Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface and a split-screen mode for access to key functions. The integrated Pioneer Luminous Bar offers visual cues for navigation and audio playback. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth support connectivity, while the system’s universal aftermarket design enables installation in a wide range of vehicles with minimal modification.
The solution is being launched at CES 2026 taking places this week in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 6-9.
In related news, Volkswagen reveals next-generation ID. Polo interior
