Microsoft is soon going to introduce the Shared Audio feature in Windows 11, allowing users to connect two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This feature is based on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio technology and is currently in the testing stage within the Insider Program. Initially, it will be available on select Surface and Copilot+ PCs.
Windows 11 Shared Audio Feature: Microsoft has started testing the Shared Audio feature in Windows 11, which will allow two Bluetooth devices to be connected simultaneously. The company has released this feature for developers and Beta Channel users, and in its initial phase, it will support Surface Laptops, Surface Pro, and Snapdragon X-based Copilot+ PCs. Based on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio technology, this system provides a better audio experience with lower battery consumption, enabling users to enjoy music or movies on two devices without cables. Support for other devices will be expanded in the future.
How the Shared Audio Feature Works
This feature is based on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, which offers better audio quality with low battery consumption. It also has low latency, thus improving the video and audio sync experience. This technology was previously seen in smartphones, and now Microsoft is implementing it on the Windows platform.
With the advent of the Shared Audio feature, users will not need any extra cables or adapters. Two Bluetooth devices can be directly connected to the PC to share audio. This feature will be particularly useful for entertainment and multi-user audio needs.
Which Devices Will Get Support First
Initially, the Shared Audio Windows 11 feature will work on Surface Laptop 13.8-inch, 15-inch models, Surface Pro 13-inch, and Snapdragon X-based Copilot+ PCs. This means that in the initial phase, it will be limited to some premium and newer models.
The company stated that headphones and earbuds with Bluetooth LE Audio support, such as Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Buds 3 series, and Sony WH-1000XM6, will be among the first to work with this feature. The list of supported headphones will be expanded in the future.
How Users Can Activate It
To benefit from Shared Audio, the device must have Bluetooth LE Audio support. After that, the user will need to join the Windows Insider Program and install the beta update. Following this, compatible headphones or earbuds can be connected to use the feature.
It is important to note that older Bluetooth devices will not work with this update. Therefore, if a user wishes to test this feature, they will need new LE Audio-supported devices.
