Microsoft’s March update for the Xbox One will finally allow the console to output Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound over and optical audio cable via bitstream. The Xbox One originally launched without, possibly the most predominant surround-sound audio standard. At present time the Xbox One can only output DTS Digital surround, uncompressed stereo, 5.1 or 7.1 audio over HDMI. Users currently using an optical cable are only getting support for uncompressed stereo or 5.1 sound.
Albert Penello, director of product planning for Microsoft’s Xbox division said before the Xbox One launch last November that Dolby Digital support would not be ready in time for the launch because of a scheduling issue. He did go on to confirm Microsoft would eventually add the feature, “I know people are disappointed, but we will have it.” With the addition of Dolby Digital audio, the Xbox One should immediately be compatible with a large range of third-party manufactured surround-sound headsets, such as those from Turtle Beach and Astro Gaming.
Microsoft has scheduled the update to be rolled out before the release of its upcoming title Titanfall of March the 11th. The update will also be improving the Xbox One’s multiplayer features such as game invites, party chat and friends list interface in anticipation of the release of Titanfall.