More Windows 11 PCs are getting this big Bluetooth update - what you need to try it

Source: ZDNet

Overview

Microsoft is rolling out shared audio support to compatible Windows 11 PCs, allowing users to broadcast audio from the PC to two compatible audio accessories. Some models received the feature last October and November, while others got it as recently as late January.

In a blog post, Microsoft explains that users can share music with a friend or watch a movie together while traveling. To try this feature, enable your compatible Windows 11 Copilot + PC in the Windows Dev or Beta Channels and install the latest updates via Windows Update.

Also: Microsoft said my PC was ‘too old’ to run Windows 11 – how I upgraded in 5 minutes anyway

If your PC is not yet compatible, look out for driver updates via Windows Update. Once compatible, a Shared audio (preview) tile will appear in Quick Settings.

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Microsoft is adopting Bluetooth LE Audio in some of its Windows 11 PCs.
• Bluetooth LE Audio brings audio sharing and super wideband to Windows 11.
• Your laptop and hearing device must be compatible with Bluetooth LE Audio.

Is it Auracast?

Microsoft omits the word Auracast from its blog post. While the Auracast protocol supports broadcasting to an unlimited number of nearby audio receivers, Microsoft’s hardware implementation limits PCs to two receivers. (This limitation is at Microsoft’s discretion, as noted by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group earlier this year.)

Also: What is Bluetooth 6.0? Why the newest audio connectivity standard is worth getting excited about

Microsoft’s blog post advises consumers to look for compatible Bluetooth headphones, earbuds, and hearing aids that advertise LE Audio support. Auracast‑supported devices can still work with the new Windows Bluetooth LE feature, even though Microsoft doesn’t explicitly mention Auracast.

What else comes with LE Audio on Windows 11?

Last year, Microsoft announced that certain Windows 11 PCs will support Super Wideband (SWB), a Bluetooth LE Audio feature that enhances voice clarity. SWB replaces older, less efficient hands‑free profiles within the Classic Bluetooth radio. Its 32 kHz sample rate is ideal for voice chat while gaming and for video calls.

Also: I spoke with Bluetooth reps about the future of connected audio, and it’s cooler than I expected

In addition to SWB, select Windows 11 PCs support SWB stereo, which uses two audio channels for a more immersive soundstage in gaming and movies. Both the laptop and the headphones/earbuds/hearing aids must be compatible with LE Audio to benefit from these features.

Which Windows PCs support LE Audio?

As of February 2026, the following Windows 11 PCs support Bluetooth LE Audio:

• Surface Laptop, 13.8‑inch and 15‑inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
• Surface Laptop for Business, 13.8‑inch and 15‑inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
• Surface Pro, 13‑inch | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
• Surface Pro for Business, 13‑inch | 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
• Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge | Qualcomm Snapdragon X

Also: After setting up Windows 11, these 9 steps are non‑negotiable for me

Upcoming LE Audio support

Microsoft indicates these laptops are next in line for LE Audio support:

• 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