Google expands LE Audio and Auracast: Pixel Phones and Sony headphones get audio sharing
You can now stream your music, movies, audiobooks, and podcasts with friends- straight from one device to multiple headphones.
What’s new?
Google is rolling out Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast support to more devices, letting you stream audio from one phone to multiple headphones at once. The update means that Pixel 8 phones (and newer), and a growing list of Sony headphones, can enjoy this feature. A feature which is already available to Samsung Galaxy and Xiaomi users.
How does it work?
Setting it up is simple. You can easily start a private broadcast from your Pixel and share it with others using:
- A quick QR code scan, or
- Google’s Fast Pair (which enables Android users to easily share content to other nearby Android devices)
Once connected, your friends can tune into the same audio stream, perfect for group listening sessions. Just remember that their headphones will need to support LE Audio too. That’s where Google is also expanding support across various Sony headphones: LinkBud S, WF-1000XM5, InZone Buds, LinkBuds Open, LinkBuds Fit, WH-1000XM6, and InZone H9 II.
How is it useful?
The Bluetooth LE Audio gives users a better wireless listening experience, while letting you share audio to multiple devices. That makes it perfect for watching movies together on a flight, a podcast on the train, or your favourite music, no matter what streaming platform you use.
It also builds on Google’s earlier work with LE Audio and Auracast support for hearing aids, making audio experiences more accessible for everyone, across more Android devices.
The bottom line
With Pixel phones now supporting LE Audio and Auracast, sharing your sounds just got a lot easier. Whether you’re syncing up a movie or listening to tracks with friends, this feature makes listening more inclusive.