- Auracast comes natively to Android 16 on Pixel 8 and later (except 8a and 9a).
- Allows you to share audio with multiple headphones at once via QR or Fast Pair.
- The feature extends to Samsung, Xiaomi and POCO with specific models.
- Auracast LE Audio compatible phone and headset required.
Android's new wave of audio features takes a leap forward with LE Audio Auracast on Google phones. From now on, compatible Pixels can output sound to multiple headphones at the same time without having to pair them individually, which is especially useful when you want to watch a movie or listen to music with someone without disturbing anyone.
Google has confirmed that this integration comes with Android 16 to the last three generations of Pixel, putting them on par with the Samsung, Xiaomi and POCO models that already included this technology. Support is also being expanded in Sony headphones, although for now the company has only specifically mentioned the WH-1000XM6.
What is Auracast and what does it bring to Android?
Basado en Bluetooth LE audioAuracast allows a single phone to create a stream that can be heard by multiple compatible receivers. In practice, this means one-to-many audio, with lower consumption and lower latency than classic Bluetooth.
The Bluetooth SIG promise was always ambitious: without a practical limit of listeners, anyone with compatible headphones could tune into a nearby broadcast. On Android, there's also the option to private broadcasts to share with friends without others being able to enter.
Beyond leisure, technology opens the door to uses in public spaces such as airports, museums, or gyms, where accessible broadcasts can be offered directly to your headphones without additional equipment.
Until now, support on Android was more focused on hearing aidsWith this expansion, Google is making Auracast a much more transversal and visible feature for the average user.
Compatibility and supported mobiles
In the Google ecosystem, the feature comes to Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10. Of course, there are exceptions: Pixel 8a and Pixel 9a are not compatible with Auracast, so they will not receive the Audio Sharing option.
Android also includes a specific list of models from other manufacturers. Samsung's compatibility extends to Galaxy S23, S24 and S25, plus Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6 and Z Fold 7. In Xiaomi and POCO, recent series have been noted with LE Audio-capable hardware.
- Samsung: Galaxy S23, S24, S25; Galaxy Z Fold 5, 6 and 7.
- Xiaomi: Xiaomi 14, 14 Ultra, 14T, 14T Pro; Xiaomi 15, 15 Ultra; Xiaomi MIX Flip.
- LITTLE BIT: POCO X6 Pro, F6 Pro, F7 Pro, F7 Ultra.
Remember that, in addition to the mobile phone, the headphones must be compatible with Auracast LE Audio. Without this dual compatibility, the option cannot be activated and the system will show you that It is not possible to share the audio.
How to enable Auracast and audio sharing on Android 16
The process is quick: on a supported Pixel, press and hold the shortcut Bluetooth to enter your settings. You will see the button Audio sharing; when tapped, the phone will search for Auracast LE Audio headphones nearby.
When the system detects compatible devices, they will appear in a Fast Pair card to confirm the connection. From there you can pair multiple headsets to the same telephone broadcast.
If you prefer to invite more people, Android allows you to generate a unit’s QR code from your private stream. Your friends just have to scan it or use Google FastPair to join with a touch.
At all times, each listener maintains control over their volume in their own headphones, while the mobile emits a stream synchronized for everyone. It's ideal for watching a series, sharing a podcast, or setting up a silent disc improvised.
Practical uses, accessibility and current limits
Beyond leisure, Auracast facilitates listen to announcements at airports, follow guided tours in museums or receive directions on a tour without depending on the equipment on the premises. It is also a plus for people with hearing loss thanks to clearer and more direct emissions.
The LE Audio standard requires recent hardware (usually Bluetooth 5.2 or higher) and a compatible firmware on the phone and the headset. If one of the two doesn't comply, there will be no way to activate Audio sharing.
Google has indicated that support is being expanded in Sony headphones, although it has not detailed a complete list beyond the WH-1000XM6The supported catalog is expected to grow as updates progress.
As is often the case, the rollout can be phased by region and device. If you don't see the option yet, it's a good idea to update to the latest version from the Google system and services to receive updates as soon as possible.
The arrival of Auracast on Android marks an important step: share audio easily, with quality and without cables, becomes an experience within reach of many more users. With the Pixels leading the way and a growing list of compatible phones and headsets, everything points to This way of listening in a group will become normal in everyday life.
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