How to Spatial Audio with the WebXR API: a comparison of the tools and techniques for creating immersive sonic experiences on the browser

The WebXR Device API provides a powerful set of functionalities that can be used for creating immersive experiences that can be accessed directly from a web browser. However, while creating a compelling visual experience is easy to implement using the WebXR API and related tools, creating the audio part of the experience is less clear and with more open questions and possibilities. This paper presents a comparison of six tools oriented to practitioners and used for implementing and delivering interactive spatial audio experiences in XR applications running on a browser. These tools are selected and evaluated based on their compatibility with the WebXR Device API, ease of use, provided support and documentation, and specific features like reverberation, head-related transfer functions (HRTFs), sound scene rotation, and real-time microphone input. The paper then discusses the integration of these spatial audio tools into WebXR applications, highlighting their potential and limitations. It also addresses the absence of standardized spatial audio frameworks for the web. The challenges of choosing the right tool regarding resource allocation, learning curve, and compatibility with XR systems are acknowledged. This overview aims to provide insights into the current state of spatial audio tools for the web, making them more accessible to developers, musicians, and researchers seeking guidance on selecting suitable 3D spatial audio tools for experiences based on WebXR.