A new era for audio: Futuresource Consulting’s Audio Collaborative 2024 reimagines the future of sound

In an era where music and audio revolutionise how we all engage with, enjoy, and experience our world, Futuresource Consulting’s Audio Collaborative event commands a position at the crossroads of technology and commerce.  

Hosted at London’s iconic Soho Hotel on 4 November, this year’s packed-out event was a defining example of how the industry can come together with camaraderie and collaborative energy. From industry-shaping insights and business strategies, to an exploration of trailblazing technologies, Audio Collaborative 2024 inspired bold conversations, setting the stage for the future of audio. The event was sponsored by a selection of world leading audio brands: DTS, Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., Audioscenic and Knowles. 

“Our mission this year was clear,” says Carl Hibbert, Research Director, Futuresource Consulting. “We wanted to bring together industry leaders, pioneers and innovators from across the globe. Not only to draw on their viewpoints and experiences, but also to openly discuss struggles, advancements, obstacles and unexpected solutions. It’s these ingredients that often get missed. And they can have the greatest impact on everyone’s future path. 

“From new trends in AI, immersive audio, and the role of TWS in hearing health, to consumer experience, sustainability and maintaining brand relevance, this year’s Audio Collaborative had it covered. Every takeaway underscored the power of gathering visionaries to explore the potential. It’s a responsibility that we all share, and now, more than ever, our industry is a collective. Audio Collaborative isn’t just about learning. It’s about connecting, challenging norms, and envisioning tomorrow’s audio landscape.” 

New research and market forecasts revealed

Throughout the afternoon, Futuresource Consulting’s research presentations and panel moderation provided attendees with critical insights into the future of the consumer audio industry.  

Kavish Patel, Senior Analyst at Futuresource, opened the day with a comprehensive presentation on the state of the audio market. His data projected the consumer audio market to grow to an estimated $85 billion in 2024, and highlighted sectors such as gaming and TWS headphones as leading this growth, with consumers increasingly prioritising audio quality, battery life and product durability. 

“The market is now primed and ready for rapid expansion through innovations like spatial audio, Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies,” noted Patel. “As user preferences continue to evolve, it is clear that the brands which can deliver on quality and technological sophistication will capture consumer attention and enjoy enduring loyalty.” 

Innovation at the core of immersive audio

Marcos Simon, CTO at Audioscenic, then took to the stage to present on Amphi Hi-D, a leap forward in multichannel, high-dimensional spatial audio, achieving true audio immersion by using advanced beamforming, crosstalk cancellation and machine-learning-based position tracking.  

“With Amphi Hi-D, we’ve developed a system that delivers spatial audio through speakers, while replicating the natural effect of sound originating all around the listener,” said Simon. “This ensures highly accurate left and right audio signals reach the corresponding ears, maintaining spatial precision, even when the listener moves. 

“We’re enabling users to experience natural, three-dimensional audio without the need for headphones. Applications range from gaming, where audio can enhance realism and engagement, to media consumption, where spatial sound replicates the depth and detail of studio-quality audio. Other potential uses include teleconferencing, for improved sound clarity and fatigue reduction. Then there’s automotive sound systems, offering highly personalised spatial audio experiences for each individual passenger. By addressing key technical challenges, we’re building a roadmap to a future of enhanced realism and usability across a wide range of situations.” 

Addressing hearing health challenges with TWS

In his presentation on the role of TWS earbuds in hearing health, Shehab Albahri, Vice President of R&D at Knowles, told the audience that an estimated 1.5 billion people across the globe experience some level of hearing impairment. That’s nearly 20% of the world’s population.

Albahri emphasised that innovations such as hearing assessment software, extended treble with balanced armature drivers, and other design considerations will make hearing health awareness and exceptional listening experiences more accessible for listeners of all abilities.“We understand the stigma and accessibility challenges that have long impacted hearing aid adoption,” said Albahri. “By integrating user-friendly hearing enhancements into everyday devices, our aim is to redefine the consumer experience, making hearing assistance accessible and empowering for all.”

The future of ear tech and personalised listening experiences

During the panel session, ‘Personalisation and the New Frontier of Ear Tech’, chaired by Rasika D'Souza of Futuresource Consulting, panellists discussed how audio technology is entering a fresh era of personalisation. They shared insights on innovations that are shaping the future of ear tech, from adaptive soundscapes and wearable intelligence, to seamless connectivity and health integration. The discussion revealed a future where audio devices become intuitive, multifunctional companions, tailoring experiences to individual needs and redefining how users interact with sound.  

"We’re seeing a surge in form factors, from traditional earphones and headphones to clip-on devices and even smart glasses," said Elfed Howells, Cofounder and Commercial Director at Elevear, as he highlighted the emergence of new wearable audio solutions. “These devices are evolving to become multifunctional tools that adapt to users' diverse needs. From hearing augmentation to personalised audio experiences, the future is all about devices that help you live your life. Whether that’s through sound quality, hearing protection, or simply enhancing your daily activities.” 

Maurice Moroney, Director, Product Management, QT Technologies Ireland Limited, offered a glimpse into the impact of connectivity on future audio devices. “Innovations like low-power Wi-Fi are allowing us to decouple devices from their source,” he said. “With increased bandwidth and range, users can leave their phone in one part of their house and enjoy uninterrupted audio across their entire space and into their gardens. These new connectivity options will also open up fresh possibilities for consumers, including the proliferation of lossless audio.” 

Shehab Albahri from Knowles shared his long-term vision with the audience. “Imagine a device that you just plug in and forget about,” he said, “and it seamlessly enhances every part of your life, from music playback to health monitoring. That’s the direction we're headed, but we still have a lot of work ahead, particularly on the software side.” 

Mikael Herje of HARMAN pointed to the changing consumer mindset. “Technology isn’t just a tool anymore,” he noted, “it is part of who we all are. We’re moving toward a world where these devices aren’t just something we use, they’re extensions of our core selves. Guiding us through our day, becoming a part of our daily rhythm.” 

Maintaining brand relevance in a digital world

Today’s consumers expect audio products that not only perform effortlessly, but also cope with their diverse entertainment needs. In the panel discussion, ‘Maintaining Brand Relevance in a Digital World’, Futuresource Consulting’s Guy Hammett chaired a session exploring how the audio industry is adapting to these evolving consumer demands. 

Andy Dowell of MQA noted that younger consumers may not be investing in high-end audio hardware, but they are eager to spend money on audio experiences like concerts and events, where sound quality is now at a far higher level than it ever has been before. “When they get back home,” Dowell said, “they want their headphones, living room speakers, and even those in their dad’s car to make the hair stand up on the backs of their necks.  And companies are responding by collaborating with artists and influencers to make premium audio feel more relatable and engaging.   

“Now, more than ever, we need to keep nurturing these people along the way, picking the right channels and collaborations for every point in the consumer’s life.” 

KEF’s Sarah Yule emphasised that modern consumers are looking for multifunctional products, which not only deliver high-quality sound, but also integrate seamlessly into their homes. “Speakers must now serve multiple purposes,” said Yule. “Consumers want to stream music, play games and enjoy high-quality home cinema, often all from the same speakers. And there’s also a clear aesthetic need, with hardware requiring an alignment with interior design trends. This shift highlights the growing requirement for audio equipment to serve as both functional technology and stylish furniture.” 

Scott Campbell of HARMAN pointed out that storytelling and context are essential to rebuilding the value of music in an era where streaming platforms offer endless songs at low cost. He talked about the shifting values of younger consumers, noting that while they may not prioritise spending on audio hardware, they are willing to invest in audio experiences. Julien Bergere of Dynaudio echoed this sentiment and stressed the importance of creating unique experiences. He told the audience that the industry needs to shift focus from hardware to experience, emphasising audio as art, and engaging consumers with richer, narrative-driven connections to music. 

Levelling the playing field for brands of all sizes

In the event’s fireside chat, Maurice Moroney, Director, Product Management at QTTechnologies Ireland Limited., and Futuresource Consulting’s Carl Hibbert discussed Qualcomm Technologies’ role in empowering brands without requiring vertical integration. “Our aim is to foster ecosystem collaboration and multi-device experiences, enabling companies of all sizes,” Moroney said. “We are committed to helping brands at all levels of the playing field.” 

The conversation also highlighted the transformative role of sustainability in commerce, shifting from a focus on ESG compliance, to creating authentic, impactful business practices. To illustrate the point, Moroney talked about an ODM partner in China, which operates a net-zero factory to produce headphones. The environmentally friendly facility, complete with abundant planting and recycled water systems, even coincides product launches with environmentally significant dates. This helps to signal a commitment to the planet that resonates with modern consumers, particularly Millennials, who prioritise eco-conscious brands. 

The dialogue also explored the future of consumer electronics, with Moroney expressing excitement about the advent of replaceable batteries in TWS headphones. “This innovation promises extended product lifespans, which reduces waste by eliminating the need for yearly replacements,” Moroney said. “Combine this with our commitment to enabling upgradable audio devices, and consumers will be able to add new features over time. We’re enhancing product longevity and sustaining consumer attachment, reducing electronic waste. It’s in stark contrast to the traditional model of constant device turnover.” 

The evolving audio landscape and the impact of innovative form factors like smart glasses and open-ear earbuds were also discussed. Moroney highlighted how Qualcomm Technologies supports collaboration between device makers to create seamless, cross-platform experiences. This  allows for innovative technological leaps, underscoring the collaborative spirit that shapes today’s industry, and paves the way for more sustainable and consumer-friendly advancements. 

Clearer dialogue for better TV viewing experiences

In his AI-enhanced TV audio presentation, Martin Walsh, Vice President of R&D at DTS talked about the increasing struggle to hear dialogue, experienced by many television viewers. This is due to a mix of evolving audio standards, equipment limitations and unique viewing environments. Studies reveal that 84% of viewers occasionally find it hard to understand dialogue, often resorting to subtitles, while 85% of Netflix users regularly enable captions. 

“Modern TVs, optimised for sleek design and high resolution, sacrifice sound quality, which results in muffled dialogue,” said Walsh. “Even as sound production evolves with immersive audio setups, most viewers lack the equipment for optimal playback, leading to down-mixed audio that often obscures dialogue under louder effects and music. But that’s not the end of the problem. Large, open floorplans, hardwood floors and background noises, combined with the lack of dynamic range in home audio, all add to the difficulty.” 

Walsh pointed to emerging AI solutions, such as DTS’s Clear Dialogue, which uses machine learning to unmix and enhance audio for individual viewers, adjusting the sound profile to better suit varied environments and user preferences. This approach not only amplifies clarity, but also personalises audio for individual hearing needs, aiming to reduce the prevalent issue of inaudible dialogue on home televisions. 

The push for sustainability  

As sustainability continues to move centre stage for many industries, Audio Collaborative provided a forum for companies to showcase how they are rethinking production processes and product design to minimise environmental impact. In particular, Lisa Stafford, CEO of TAZAAR introduced the concept of sustainable product passports, allowing products to be traced and certified for environmental responsibility.  

Looking to the future of audio

"We’d like to thank our sponsors DTS, Qualcomm Technologies, Audioscenic and Knowles for their valuable contributions to this year’s event,” said Carl Hibbert.  

With another successful year on record, Futuresource Consulting is already looking ahead. Plans are underway to inject Audio Collaborative 2025 with more diverse themes and a full-day programme, reflecting the event’s growing global reach and significance. The goal is to support an even larger audience of international audio professionals, reinforcing Futuresource’s commitment to fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing across the industry. 

For more information about Futuresource Consulting and Audio Collaborative 2024, visit our webpage. 

Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.  

About the author

Carl Hibbert

Heading the Consumer Media & Technology Research team, with over 20 years industry analyst experience. Carl maintains & develops Futuresource's services across all forms of entertainment & consumer electronics, ensuring unrivaled insight & knowledge in sector dynamics and future industry direction. A regular presenter at industry conferences across USA, Europe and Asia and frequent contributor to press and trade journals.