Microsoft is making music sharing easier on Windows 11 with a new feature called Shared Audio, which allows users to stream sound to two Bluetooth headphones or speakers simultaneously. This much-awaited feature is now available in preview mode for Windows 11 Insider Preview builds (Build 26220.7051 and newer). Built on the latest Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio standard, Shared Audio delivers enhanced power efficiency, lower latency, and precise synchronization for seamless multi-device playback.
What is Shared Audio in Windows 11?
Shared Audio is designed to let two people listen to the same audio output from a single Windows 11 PC. Whether it’s watching a movie together, enjoying music, or studying side by side, both users can use their own Bluetooth headphones without needing any cables, splitters, or third-party software. The feature brings convenience and flexibility to modern audio sharing, making it perfect for personal and social use alike.
How to Use Shared Audio
Activating Shared Audio is simple. Start by pairing and connecting two Bluetooth LE Audio-compatible headphones or earbuds to your Windows 11 computer. Then:
- Open the Quick Settings panel from the taskbar (by clicking the Wi-Fi, battery, or volume icons).
- Select the new “Shared audio (preview)” tile to begin streaming audio to both devices.
- To stop, click “Stop sharing” and the PC will return to single-device audio output.
This quick setup makes it easier than ever for two users to enjoy synchronized wireless sound from the same device.
Hardware Requirements and Limitations
At the moment, the Shared Audio feature is available only on Copilot+ capable PCs, which come with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors designed for AI-powered performance. Supported devices currently include the Surface Laptop (Snapdragon X) and Surface Pro (Snapdragon X).
Microsoft has also confirmed that Intel-based devices such as future Samsung Galaxy Book models with Intel Core Ultra Series 200 processors will receive support in upcoming updates.
Compatible Bluetooth Devices
For Shared Audio to work, both connected headphones must support Bluetooth LE Audio. Older models using traditional Bluetooth versions will not function with this feature. Compatible devices include:
- Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Buds3, Buds3 Pro
- Sony WH-1000XM6
- LE Audio-enabled hearing aids
A Step Toward Smarter Audio Sharing
The introduction of Shared Audio in Windows 11 represents a major leap in wireless sound sharing technology. By leveraging Bluetooth LE Audio, Microsoft is bringing a more social and accessible audio experience to users. Though limited to newer devices for now, broader support is on the horizon. Soon, Windows 11 users everywhere will be able to share music, movies, and more wirelessly and effortlessly.
