Today marks a significant step forward in audio sharing technology with the rollout of the shared audio (preview) feature in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7051) for both Dev and Beta Channels. This innovative experience allows users to share audio seamlessly between two separate Bluetooth audio devices, such as headphones, speakers, earbuds, or even hearing aids. Leveraging the capabilities of Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology, this feature enables a Windows 11 PC to transmit audio to two Bluetooth accessories simultaneously.
Update 10/31: Currently, this preview is limited to specific Copilot+ PCs, with plans to expand support to additional devices for the general audience in the future.
The shared audio feature opens up new possibilities for users. Students can now enjoy their favorite tunes with a friend while studying, and families can bond over a movie during flights, all while using their own devices. As part of the Insider program, users have the unique opportunity to explore this feature and provide valuable feedback ahead of its broader release.
To utilize shared audio, users need to pair and connect two compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories to their Windows 11 PC. The process is straightforward: simply access the “Shared audio (preview)” tile in the quick settings to initiate audio sharing, and use the “Stop sharing” button to conclude the session.
Compatible Copilot+ PCs
The shared audio feature is currently supported on select Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs that have the necessary Bluetooth and audio driver updates. Additional Windows 11 PCs are expected to gain support in the near future.
Available today:
- Surface Laptop, 13.8-inch and 15-inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Laptop for Business, 13.8 and 15-inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro, 13-inch | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro for Business, 13-inch | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
Coming soon:
- Samsung Galaxy Book5 360 | Intel Core Ultra Series 200
- Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro | Intel Core Ultra Series 200
- Samsung Galaxy 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
Previously known as Surface Laptop 7th Edition
* Previously known as Surface Pro 11th Edition
Compatible Bluetooth LE Audio Accessories
The shared audio feature is designed to work with a variety of Bluetooth LE Audio accessories. This includes popular models such as:
- Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
- Samsung Galaxy Buds3
- Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
- Sony WH-1000XM6
- Recent LE Audio capable hearing aids from ReSound and Beltone
Both shared audio and other advanced Windows Bluetooth audio experiences, such as super wideband stereo, are built on the foundation of LE Audio technology. When considering your next audio accessory purchase, look for LE Audio support to ensure compatibility.
Requirements to Try Shared Audio (Preview)
To experience shared audio (preview), users must enroll their compatible Windows 11 Copilot+ PC in the Windows Insider Dev or Beta Channels and ensure they have the latest OS and driver updates via Windows Update. For those eager to receive features as they become available, enabling the toggle for updates in Settings > Windows Update is recommended. This will allow for a gradual rollout of features to your device.
For users with a Copilot+ PC listed as “coming soon,” keep an eye out for driver updates through Windows Update in the upcoming weeks. Once the necessary updates are installed, the “Shared audio (preview)” tile will appear in Quick Settings, ready for use.
It is advisable to utilize the manufacturers’ app for your Bluetooth audio accessories to confirm that LE Audio support is activated and that the latest firmware updates are applied. If your Bluetooth accessory connects to your PC but does not appear under the “Shared audio (preview)” tile, consider removing it and re-pairing it for optimal functionality.
Share Your Feedback
Feedback is essential in refining the shared audio experience during this preview phase. Users are encouraged to submit their thoughts through the Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under the category of Bluetooth – Audio quality, glitches, choppiness and stuttering.
