How does audio occlusion improve realism when virtual objects block line-of-sight sound paths?

Example Concept: Audio occlusion in XR environments uses spatial audio techniques to simulate how sound waves interact with virtual objects. When a virtual object obstructs the line-of-sight between a sound source and the listener, the audio engine calculates the effects of diffraction and absorption, altering the sound's characteristics. This process involves reducing high frequencies and adding reverberation to emulate how sound would naturally be muffled or altered by the presence of physical barriers, enhancing the perception of depth and space in the virtual scene.