Microsoft’s Latest Windows 11 Update Enables Bluetooth Audio Sharing

Microsoft is testing a new shared audio feature for Windows 11 that lets users stream sound to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. The feature, powered by the Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio codec, is now available to Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels.

The shared audio option enables users to connect two wireless headphones, speakers, earbuds, or even hearing aids to a single PC. This means you can watch a movie with a friend or listen to music together without sharing a single headset. To activate it, users can connect LE Audio-supported devices and select the “Shared audio (preview)” button from the quick settings menu.

Microsoft first introduced LE Audio support in Windows 11 back in August. That update improved wireless audio quality in games, calls, and media playback. Now, the company is expanding its use of the technology to allow dual audio streaming.

Other tech giants have also embraced Bluetooth LE Audio. Google uses its Auracast feature to broadcast audio from Android 16 devices to compatible hearing aids. Pixel 8 and newer phones can also connect to two pairs of headphones at once. Similarly, Samsung added Auracast support with the launch of its Galaxy S24 lineup.

Currently, Microsoft’s shared audio feature is limited to select Copilot Plus PCs. Supported devices include the 13.8-inch and 15-inch Surface Laptops and the 13-inch Surface Pro. Microsoft plans to expand availability soon to models like the Samsung Galaxy Book5 360, Galaxy Book5 Pro, and more.

However, the feature only works with Bluetooth LE-compatible devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Buds 3, Buds 3 Pro, and Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones.