Introduction
Ever wanted to share a movie with a friend using two sets of wireless headphones? Or let one person use earbuds and another use a speaker at the same time? Windows is testing a Shared Audio feature that does exactly that on some PCs. It uses new Bluetooth LE Audio technology and is rolling out first to preview users on select machines.
This guide explains what the feature is, who can use it, step-by-step setup, common problems, and simple workarounds if your PC does not support it yet.
What is Shared Audio and why it matters
Shared Audio lets one PC stream the same audio stream to two Bluetooth devices at the same time. Think of watching a movie together on a flight. Both people get the same sound without a physical splitter. It relies on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio and related standards that make multi-device broadcast possible.
Why care? Because it brings smartphone-style audio sharing to PCs. This can help with shared entertainment, joint study sessions, or private listening during a meeting.
Who can try it now
Right now the feature is in preview builds of Windows 11. It is only available on select Copilot+ or otherwise supported devices with the right Bluetooth hardware and driver updates. Not every PC will see the option yet.
If your laptop is a modern model with Bluetooth LE Audio support, you have a better chance. Older PCs with classic Bluetooth chips will likely not support this feature.
Step-by-step: How to try Shared Audio (preview)
Follow these steps if you want to test the new feature.
1.Check device compatibility
Look up your PC model and check if it supports Bluetooth LE Audio. Manufacturers list this in specs or release notes. Newer Copilot+ laptops are the first to get support.
2.Join the Windows Insider Program
You need to be on the Dev or Beta channel where Microsoft is testing Shared Audio. Sign up from Windows Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Follow prompts to enroll.
3.Update Windows to the preview build
Install the latest Insider preview build that includes the Shared Audio preview tile. The Insider blog mentions the builds where the feature appears.
4.Update Bluetooth drivers and device firmware
install the latest Bluetooth drivers from your PC maker. Update firmware on each Bluetooth headset or earbud using the manufacturer app. This helps the accessories support LE Audio and Auracast features.
5.Pair both Bluetooth devices
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices and pair each headset, earbud, or speaker as normal. Both devices should show as connected.
6.Use the Shared Audio tile in Quick Settings
Open Quick Settings on the taskbar. Look for a tile named Shared audio or Shared audio (preview). Use it to select the two connected devices and press Share to start streaming to both.
7.Stop sharing
- Use the same tile to stop sharing when done.
If you do not see the tile, your PC or Bluetooth stack may not yet support the preview. Wait for further updates from Microsoft or your PC maker.
Common issues and quick fixes
No Shared Audio tile
Check Insider channel and build number. Update drivers and re-pair devices. If still missing, your PC may not be supported yet.
Devices do not appear as compatible
Ensure each headset supports Bluetooth LE Audio. Older headsets will not show up for LE broadcasts.
Audio lag or echo
Bluetooth latency can differ between devices. Try two headsets from the same brand. Update firmware and test again.
One device drops frequently
Move the devices closer to the PC and remove other active Bluetooth connections. Check for driver updates.
If your PC does not support Shared Audio yet
There are a few practical workarounds you can use today.
Stereo Mix method
Enable Stereo Mix in the sound control panel and set it to listen through a second output. This can duplicate PC audio, but it is technical and not guaranteed for Bluetooth devices.
Third-party apps
Tools such as Voicemeeter can route audio to multiple outputs. They take setup time but work across many devices.
Hardware splitter
A physical Bluetooth transmitter that supports dual outputs or a 3.5 mm splitter to feed a Bluetooth transmitter is a simple hardware option.
These options are not as smooth as native Shared Audio, but they help if you need immediate multi-device audio.
Best use cases
- Watching movies or videos with a friend in a quiet place.
- Letting a colleague use hearing aids while you use headphones during a call.
- Private group study where two students want the same audio feed.
- Social gaming sessions where each player prefers their own headset.
Why not try it for a movie night? Will it improve your shared listening experience? Most likely yes, if both devices support LE Audio.
Safety and privacy tips
- Keep firmware updated. Older firmware can have bugs or security gaps.
- When pairing in public, avoid exposing pairing codes or accepting unknown devices.
- Turn off shared audio when not needed to avoid accidental broadcasting.
Conclusion
Shared Audio is a neat step forward for Windows. When supported hardware and drivers are in place, you can stream the same audio to two Bluetooth devices easily from Quick Settings. If your PC is not ready yet, practical workarounds exist while you wait for broader rollout. Try the preview if you can, and if not, test a temporary solution that fits your needs.
Want to share a movie with a friend this weekend? Try these steps and see if your laptop can handle two sets of headphones at once. If not, a small hardware or software solution will do the job until native support reaches more PCs.
Sources used for this guide: Microsoft Windows Insider blog and recent tech coverage on Shared Audio and Bluetooth LE Audio.