- Windows 11 tests "Shared Audio" to output sound to two Bluetooth LE devices at the same time.
- Available in Windows Insider (Dev and Beta), build 26220.7051, initially on PC Copilot+.
- Compatible models: Surface Laptop (13,8 and 15”) and Surface Pro (13”) with Snapdragon X; Galaxy Book5 360/Pro coming soon.
- LE Audio Accessories: Galaxy Buds2 Pro/Buds3/Buds3 Pro, Sony WH-1000XM6 and ReSound/Beltone headphones; activation from Quick Settings.
The possibility of Share PC audio via Bluetooth with two devices It's already appearing in Windows 11: Microsoft is testing an option that allows Send sound to two compatible headphones, speakers, or earphones simultaneously using LE Audio.
This new feature is being introduced in a preliminary phase for those participating in the program. Windows Insider (Dev and Beta channels), and seeks to offer a simple and private experience without additional applications, managed from the system's Quick Settings.
What is "Shared Audio" in Windows 11 and how does it work?
The function, identified as "Shared audio"It uses the Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio codec to transmit the same sound stream to two accessories at once, maintaining low power consumption and good synchronization.
In practice, it allows two people listen to the same content with their own headphones: watch a movie, follow a series, study with music or play without disturbing anyone around.
Activation is straightforward: simply Pair two LE Audio devices and tap the "Shared Audio (Preview)" tile in the Quick Settings panel on the taskbar to start streaming in parallel.
If desired, the user can stop dual broadcasting at any time from the same access point, without resorting to third-party software or physical signal distributors.
Requirements, compatible equipment and accessories
For this option to work, it is essential that The computer and headphones must be compatible with Bluetooth LE AudioMicrosoft has enabled the preview in the Windows 11 Insider Preview build. 26220.7051 for the Dev and Beta channels.
For now, the Deployment is limited to PC Copilot+ concrete with the latest drivers: Surface Laptop (13,8 and 15 inches) and Surface Pro (13 inches)All models with Snapdragon X processors are among those supported.
The company anticipates that compatibility will be expanded to more teams when the drivers are readyIncluding laptops like the Samsung Galaxy Book5 360 and Galaxy Book5 Pro, in addition to future versions of Surface Laptop and other Copilot+.
In the accessories section, the list includes Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Galaxy Buds3, Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Sony WH-1000XM6 and headphones with LE Audio ReSound y BeltoneIt is recommended to keep the firmware up to date and confirm in the manufacturer's app that LE Audio is activated.
If any headset does not appear in the "Shared Audio (Preview)" switch, It's advisable to unpair and reconnect the device, verifying that it actually declares LE Audio support (e.g., LC3 codec) in its specifications.
How to activate it step by step
Before you begin, make sure you meet the requirements: be an Insider (Dev/Beta) and use a compatible Copilot+ PC with the latest Bluetooth/audio drivers.
- Enroll your device in the Windows Insider Program and update to build 26220.7051 from Windows Update.
- Pair two Bluetooth LE Audio accessories with your PC.
- Open the Quick taskbar settings and press the button "Shared audio (preview)".
- To stop the function, Use "Stop sharing" in the same panel.
Differences with Auracast and recent improvements in LE Audio
Although it is reminiscent of Auracast (LE broadcasting aimed at multiple listeners and public spaces), the Windows 11 proposal is private and limited to two devices, governed from the system and without the need for external apps.
This new feature adds to the momentum from last August, when the mode was incorporated. "super wideband stereo" for LE Audio in calls and game chats (32 kHz), avoiding the typical degradation when activating the microphone on the headset.
In Spain and the rest of Europe, those who are part of the Insider program can Try the feature starting today on compatible devices, pending wider availability once the driver validation phase is complete.
With "Shared Audio," Windows 11 takes a long-awaited step in wireless audio experiences On the PC: a simple implementation, useful for everyday use and aligned with the evolution of LE Audio, although for now restricted to a specific group of computers.
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