Introducing Windows 11’s New Shared Audio Feature

Microsoft has unveiled an innovative feature called “Shared Audio” in Windows 11, enhancing the user experience by enabling seamless wireless audio sharing through Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio technology. This feature allows two users to enjoy audio simultaneously from a single computer, making it perfect for music lovers, movie enthusiasts, or students studying together.

Key Features of Shared Audio

  • Allows wireless sharing of audio between compatible Bluetooth devices.
  • Supports concurrent playback on two output devices such as headphones, speakers, or hearing aids.
  • Officially available for testing in recent Windows 11 builds (versions 25H2 and 24H2).

The Shared Audio feature is currently being tested through builds 26220.7051 and 26120.7051 available in the Dev and Beta Channels. It coincides with other upcoming enhancements like the Taskbar Copilot search feature and an expanded Xbox Full Screen Experience for additional handheld devices.

How to Use the Shared Audio Feature

To share audio between multiple Bluetooth devices on Windows 11, follow these steps:

  1. Connect your compatible Bluetooth audio devices to your PC.
  2. Access the “Quick Settings” menu by pressing the Windows key + A.
  3. Select the “Shared Audio” section.
  4. Choose your desired output devices and click the “Share” button.
Shared Audio feature
Shared Audio feature / Image: Microsoft

Supported Devices for Shared Audio

The Shared Audio feature is accessible on devices running Copilot+ with Bluetooth Low Energy capabilities and compatible audio drivers. Here’s a list of currently supported devices:

Current Support:

  • Surface Laptop (13.8-inch and 15-inch models)
  • Surface Laptop for Business (13.8-inch and 15-inch models)
  • Surface Pro (13-inch model)
  • Surface Pro for Business (13-inch model)

This functionality is specifically available for Surface devices that come equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor.

Upcoming Support Expansions

Microsoft is committed to extending the Shared Audio feature to an expanded range of devices. Anticipated additions include:

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 model) – Qualcomm Snapdragon X
  • Surface Laptop for Business (13-inch model) – Qualcomm Snapdragon X
  • Surface Pro (12-inch model) – Qualcomm Snapdragon X
  • Surface Pro for Business (12-inch model) – Qualcomm Snapdragon X

Looking ahead, Microsoft aims to broaden the compatibility and functionality of this feature across more devices.

Conclusion

Are you excited about using the Shared Audio feature? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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