Galaxy S23 users frustrated by Dolby Atmos audio issues, fix in the works but no timeline

Samsung Galaxy S23 owners are growing increasingly frustrated as an unexpected Dolby Atmos sound issue continues to impact their audio experience. After the One UI 6.1.1 update, users across the board have reported that the sound quality on their devices seems noticeably degraded. The common complaint? Audio now sounds “tinny” or “washed out,” with Dolby Atmos modes delivering overpowering reverb and losing the balanced clarity users loved in previous versions.

The One UI 6.1.1 update was initially intended to enhance Samsung’s 360 Audio feature, powered by an update in the Dolby Atmos Library from version 3.10 to 3.12. However, it appears the tuning for 360 Audio has disrupted the quality across other audio modes, particularly in “Movie” and “Music” settings. These modes, which once provided a subtle, immersive surround effect, are now producing overly dramatic reverbs and volume changes. Even “Voice” mode, designed to enhance clarity in dialogue-heavy content, has reportedly become overly amplified, which users say can make audio feel harsh and hollow.

Samsung’s support team has acknowledged the problem, explaining that users accustomed to the older Dolby Atmos setup might perceive the new tuning as a downgrade. After significant user feedback, Samsung has communicated the issue to Dolby, and the companies are collaborating on an updated Dolby Atmos library that should restore the quality users expect. Unfortunately, as of the latest November security patch, there’s still no fix in sight, and Samsung hasn’t provided a specific timeline for when the patch might arrive.

For now, frustrated S23 users are experimenting with workarounds. Some have found that switching to the “Dynamic” mode helps bring back some of the bass and balance, while others are simply turning off Dolby Atmos altogether to avoid the excessive reverb. Though these adjustments are a temporary fix, they fall short of the audio experience Samsung users had grown to enjoy.

It’s clear that Samsung is aware and taking steps to address the issue, but until a fix is deployed, Galaxy S23 users will have to wait patiently. Samsung and Dolby’s commitment to improving the sound quality is promising, but without a timeline, users may continue to find their music, movies, and podcasts sounding a bit less punchy than before. But it won’t be long before your favorite Dolby Atmos sound comes back.

In addition to the Dolby Atmos audio complaints, Samsung users are also dealing with a handful of other glitches following the One UI 6.1.1 update. Reports indicate issues with Edge Lighting, while some users are also experiencing frequent app crashes. And on the camera front, S23 Ultra owners have noticed a bug affecting the zoom function, causing the camera to stutter or fail to focus properly at higher zoom levels.