U.S. News
Peacock to Let Fans Silence Game Commentators Soon
Clear Facts
- Peacock will be the first streaming service to use Dolby AC-4 technology to enhance live sports broadcasts starting in 2026.
- This upgrade allows viewers to mute announcers and customize their own audio mix, including adjusting crowd noise levels.
- The new features will be available only through the Peacock app and not on traditional TV broadcasts.
Peacock is set to introduce Dolby AC-4, giving sports fans the ability to control commentary and crowd sounds directly while streaming.
This new option is designed to create a more personalized and immersive experience for users at home.
“Our livestreams on Peacock are already in HDR, and we introduced Dolby Atmos as well last year, which made a massive jump in the immersiveness,” stated NBCUniversal SVP of Global Video Engineering, David Bohunek.
He added, “You have to have a great sound with great picture, but then with Dolby Vision, we think we can push it into the next level.”
Viewers will have the freedom to turn off commentary completely or set their preferred audio setup with simple controls in Peacock’s app.
“With AC-4 and the personalization of the audio, we can let the customers do what they prefer with a very simple control in our own UI,” said Bohunek.
“And maybe let them turn off commentary completely if that’s what they want.”
This upgrade does not include traditional TV viewers, as these audio choices are reserved for streaming customers.
“In streaming, we’re able to operate at a pace of change that’s just a lot faster than we could ever do in more traditional broadcast,” said Dolby’s SVP of Entertainment, John Couling.
The launch is anticipated for later in 2026, with Peacock leading the way in customizable sports audio.
If you ever wanted the feel of a VIP box without leaving home, this upgrade has you covered.
Stay updated as more streaming platforms could follow Peacock’s example.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
