Microsoft is introducing a brand-new Shared Audio feature in Windows 11, allowing users to stream the same sound to two Bluetooth LE Audio devices at once. The feature is currently being tested in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7051) for users enrolled in the Dev and Beta Channels.
According to the Windows Insider Blog, this feature leverages Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology, which lets a single Windows 11 PC transmit audio to multiple Bluetooth receivers such as headphones, earbuds, speakers, or even hearing aids. Google is also working on similar Bluetooth LE Audio support with Android 16, signaling a broader industry shift toward more flexible and energy-efficient wireless audio.
What Is Shared Audio in Windows 11
Shared Audio is powered by Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast, enabling one device to share the same sound stream with multiple connected devices. This means you can listen to music, watch a movie, or take a call on two Bluetooth headsets at the same time without any cables, splitters, or adapters.
Microsoft highlights that this can be especially useful for scenarios such as:
- Two students sharing a playlist or study material.
- Families watching a movie together on a flight.
- Users with hearing aids listening alongside someone using standard Bluetooth headphones.
Requirements to Access Shared Audio Preview
To try out the Shared Audio feature, you’ll need:
- Enrollment in the Windows Insider Dev or Beta Channel.
- The latest OS and driver updates via Windows Update.
- Bluetooth accessories that support LE Audio, with updated firmware via the manufacturer’s app.
If the Shared Audio option doesn’t appear, remove and re-pair your Bluetooth device to refresh the connection.
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How to Use Shared Audio on Windows 11
Here’s how you can enable and use the new Shared Audio feature:
- Pair and connect two Bluetooth LE Audio-compatible devices to your Windows 11 PC.
- Click the Sound or Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar to open Quick Settings.
- Select the Shared Audio (Preview) tile to start broadcasting sound to both devices.
- Tap Stop sharing when you want to end the session.
Compatible Windows 11 Devices
Currently, Shared Audio is supported only on select Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs equipped with the required Bluetooth and audio drivers. These include:
- Surface Laptop (13.8-inch and 15-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Laptop for Business (13.8-inch and 15-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro (13-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro for Business (13-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
Coming soon to:
- Samsung Galaxy Book5 360, Book5 Pro, and Book5 Pro 360 | Intel Core Ultra Series 200
- Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Laptop (13-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Laptop for Business (13-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro (12-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro for Business (12-inch) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
Why It Matters
Microsoft’s new Shared Audio feature brings a seamless and social listening experience to Windows 11, making Bluetooth LE Audio technology more accessible to everyday users. Whether you’re sharing entertainment or collaborating in study sessions, this innovation simplifies how multiple users can connect through sound without compromise.