Google has rolled out a new Bluetooth feature that allows Android users to share audio with multiple headphones at once. The expansion of LE Audio Auracast support brings enhanced listening options to more phones and headphones, making shared audio experiences easier and more accessible.
What Is Auracast and How It Works
Auracast is part of Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) Audio technology that allows one device to broadcast sound to multiple compatible headphones simultaneously. When using a compatible Android phone, users can now pair two sets of headphones at once or create a “private broadcast” that friends can join by scanning a QR code or using Google’s Fast Pair feature.
This technology eliminates old inconveniences like sharing earbuds or disturbing others with speaker playback when wanting to share audio content with friends.
Supported Devices
Google has expanded Auracast support to several phone models, including:
- Google Pixel 8 and newer
- Samsung Galaxy S23, S24, and S25 series
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, 6, and 7
- Select Xiaomi and POCO models
On the headphone side, Google has added support for Sony headphones, including the WF-1000XM5 earbuds, LinkBuds S, InZone Buds, LinkBuds Open, LinkBuds Fit, WH-1000XM6, and InZone H9 II.
Real-World Applications
The technology enables several practical uses beyond just personal listening:
Social Sharing: Two people can watch a movie or listen to music together on a bus or plane without disturbing others. Groups can create “silent disco” experiences where everyone listens to the same music through their own headphones.
Public Venues: At Auracast-enabled locations, visitors can connect to broadcasts for airport announcements, museum audio tours, or gym TV audio using their personal headphones.
Accessibility: The feature provides improved access to audio content for people with hearing aids, allowing them to receive clear sound directly to their devices.
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Important Limitations
For Auracast to work, both devices need to support the technology. The broadcasting phone must be a compatible Android device, and the receiving headphones must support LE Audio. Standard Bluetooth headphones won’t be able to receive Auracast broadcasts.
While device support is growing, public venue adoption remains limited. Users should expect a gradual rollout of Auracast-enabled broadcasts in airports, museums, and other public spaces.
The Bigger Picture
This update represents a significant step in making Bluetooth technology more versatile. Before LE Audio, sharing audio between devices often required specialized apps or was limited to specific brands working together. Auracast creates a more universal standard for audio sharing.
The expansion also addresses practical problems like audio accessibility in public spaces. Instead of relying on venue-provided receivers, people can use their own comfortable, familiar headphones to access announcements and information.
Google Product Manager Punyabrata Ray described the feature as “creating a more connected, inclusive audio experience for everyone” in the official announcement.
For Android users with compatible devices, the feature is rolling out as part of recent updates at no additional cost. To check compatibility, users should verify both their phone model and headphone support for LE Audio, and ensure they’re running the latest Android update.
As more devices and venues adopt this technology, Auracast could change how people share and experience audio in both private and public settings.
