Share Audio on Windows 11: Connect Two Bluetooth Headphones
▼ Summary
– Microsoft is introducing shared audio to Windows 11, enabling audio streaming to two wireless devices using Bluetooth LE audio technology.
– This feature allows users to share audio for activities like watching movies or listening to music together on compatible devices.
– Shared audio is currently available in preview for Windows 11 Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels on select Copilot Plus PCs.
– It requires Bluetooth LE-supported devices, such as specific Samsung Galaxy Buds and Sony headphones, to function.
– Other companies like Google and Samsung have implemented similar shared audio features using Bluetooth LE-based technologies in their devices.
Microsoft is introducing a new shared audio capability for Windows 11, enabling users to stream audio to two separate Bluetooth headphones or speakers simultaneously. This functionality is especially useful for shared entertainment experiences, such as watching movies or listening to music together without disturbing others. The feature relies on Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio technology and is currently being distributed as a preview to Windows Insiders enrolled in the Dev and Beta channels.
You can activate shared audio by pairing two compatible Bluetooth LE devices with your Windows 11 computer. Once connected, simply open the quick settings menu and select the “Shared audio (preview)” option to begin streaming. This setup is ideal for enjoying media with a friend or family member, with each person using their own wireless headset or earbuds.
Earlier this year, Microsoft integrated LE Audio support into Windows 11, which not only improves sound quality during gaming and calls but also enables new sharing capabilities. Other technology companies have introduced similar features. For example, Google’s Auracast, also based on Bluetooth LE, allows Android 16 devices to broadcast audio directly to supported hearing aids. More recently, this was extended to Pixel 8 and newer models, which can connect to two headphones at the same time. Samsung also incorporated Auracast into its Galaxy S24 series and newer phones.
At present, the shared audio function on Windows 11 is limited to certain Copilot Plus PC models. These include the 13.8-inch and 15-inch Surface Laptops, as well as the 13-inch Surface Pro. Additional devices like the Samsung Galaxy Book5 360, Galaxy Book5 Pro, and 13-inch Surface Laptop are expected to receive the feature in future updates. It’s important to note that only Bluetooth LE-compatible audio accessories will work with this feature. Supported models include the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Buds 3, Buds 3 Pro, and Sony WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones.
(Source: The Verge)
