Microsoft has begun expanding access to a significant component of Bluetooth LE Audio, enabling users to stream audio to two devices simultaneously. This development, currently in its preview phase, allows Windows 11 users to share audio between two sets of speakers, earphones, or even hearing aids. While the rollout is initially limited, it signifies a substantial stride towards broader availability.
Currently, this feature is exclusively available to Windows Insiders participating in the Beta or Dev Channel. However, even among these users, access is further restricted to those with specific hardware. Microsoft is prioritizing Copilot+ PCs, particularly its Surface devices, for this initial phase. The supported Surface devices include the Surface Laptop (13.8-inch and 15-inch), Surface Laptop for Business (13.8-inch and 15-inch), Surface Pro (13-inch), and Surface Pro for Business (13-inch), all equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors.
This exclusivity won’t last indefinitely. Microsoft has announced that the following devices will gain access to shared audio “soon”: Samsung Galaxy Book5 360, Galaxy Book5 Pro, Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, and Galaxy Book4 Edge, all powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 200 processors. Additionally, the 13-inch and 12-inch variants of the Surface Laptop, Surface Laptop for Business, Surface Pro, and Surface Pro for Business, all with Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, will also be included. Microsoft has also hinted that more Windows 11 PCs will support shared audio in the future.
In a blog post, Microsoft introduced this new capability, stating: “The Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7051) for Dev & Beta Channels begins gradual rollout of shared audio (preview), a new experience being previewed that allows your audio to be shared between two separate headphones, speakers, earbuds, or hearing aids. Built on top of Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology, shared audio lets your supported Windows 11 PC transmit an audio stream to two Bluetooth audio accessories at the same time.”
The company further elaborated on the potential uses of this feature: “Shared audio lets students share music with a friend while studying or brings family members closer by watching a movie together on an airplane. As Insiders, you have the first opportunity to explore this feature and provide feedback before it rolls out more broadly.”
To utilize shared audio, users need to pair and connect two compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories to their Windows 11 PC. They can then use the “Shared audio (preview)” tile in quick settings to initiate audio sharing. To end a sharing session, users can simply use the “Stop sharing” button.
However, Microsoft has clarified that this feature is not compatible with all Bluetooth accessories. It specifically requires Bluetooth LE Audio accessories, such as the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Buds3, Buds3 Pro, Sony WH-1000XM6, and recent LE Audio capable hearing aids from ReSound and Beltone.
This development could significantly impact the audio industry, fostering innovation in wireless audio technology and enhancing user experiences. As Bluetooth LE Audio gains traction, we can expect to see more devices supporting this feature, leading to a more interconnected and personalized audio landscape.
