Dolby just threw out the home theater rulebook. The audio giant's new FlexConnect platform lets users place wireless speakers anywhere in their room while maintaining full Dolby Atmos immersion—no more precise positioning required. Currently exclusive to TCL's 2025 QD-Mini LED TVs, the technology could reshape how consumers build home theater systems by making professional-grade audio setup as simple as pairing Bluetooth devices.
Dolby is rewriting the rules of home theater setup. The audio technology pioneer just unveiled Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, a wireless speaker platform that promises to deliver immersive surround sound regardless of where you place speakers in your room. After decades of demanding precise speaker positioning for optimal Dolby Atmos performance, the company is betting consumers want convenience over perfection.
TCL has secured exclusive launch rights for the technology, integrating FlexConnect into all of its 2025 QD-Mini LED TVs. The system works by automatically detecting each wireless speaker's capabilities—power output, frequency response, and physical positioning—then calibrating the audio to maximize Dolby Atmos performance across height and surround channels.
"For years, there have been just two options for better TV sound: A traditional, AV receiver-based home theater system or a soundbar," according to Wired's hands-on coverage of a Santa Monica demo event. FlexConnect represents a third path that could appeal to consumers who want immersive audio without the complexity of traditional setups.
The technology addresses a fundamental pain point in home audio. Traditional Dolby Atmos systems require speakers to be positioned "just so" to create the signature dome-of-sound experience. Even premium soundbars with satellite speakers demand careful placement for optimal performance. FlexConnect's algorithmic approach promises to solve this by incorporating the TV's built-in speakers as part of the system, then optimizing wireless speakers to fill gaps.
TCL's implementation allows pairing up to four wireless Z100 FlexConnect speakers ($400 each) with compatible TVs. Each Z100 delivers 170 watts RMS through three front-facing drivers plus an up-firing unit for height effects. Users can optionally replace one speaker with a Z100-SW subwoofer ($500), bringing a complete system cost to around $1,700.
The setup process takes under five minutes according to demo reports. The TV's onboard microphones detect speaker presence and position, with users only needing to input their distance from the screen. This contrasts sharply with traditional AV receiver setups that can require hours of calibration and room correction.
