Microsoft has started a gradual rollout of a new feature called shared audio (preview) in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7051 for the Dev and Beta Channels. This capability enables users to transmit a single audio stream from their Windows 11 Copilot+ PC to two Bluetooth LE Audio accessories simultaneously.
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Built on Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology, shared audio supports concurrent playback across two compatible devices such as headphones, earbuds, speakers, or hearing aids. Users can initiate sharing through the “Shared audio (preview)” tile in Quick Settings after pairing and connecting two supported accessories. To end a session, they select the “Stop sharing” button.
The feature offers practical applications, including students sharing music during study sessions or families watching movies together on flights. Windows Insiders receive early access to test the functionality and submit feedback before broader availability.
Supported Devices
Shared audio (preview) currently functions on select Copilot+ PCs equipped with updated Bluetooth and audio drivers. Additional models will gain support in the near future.
Available Today
- Surface Laptop, 13.8-inch and 15-inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Laptop for Business, 13.8 and 15-inch* | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro, 13-inch** | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
- Surface Pro for Business, 13-inch** | Qualcomm Snapdragon X
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 | 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
* Previously known as Surface Laptop 7th Edition
** Previously known as Surface Pro 11th Edition
Compatible Accessories
Shared audio (preview) works with a range of Bluetooth LE Audio accessories. Confirmed compatible devices include Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Buds3, and Buds3 Pro; Sony WH-1000XM6; and recent LE Audio–enabled hearing aids from ReSound and Beltone. Microsoft advises users to verify LE Audio support when purchasing new audio hardware.
Requirements
To use shared audio (preview), users must enroll a compatible Windows 11 Copilot+ PC in the Windows Insider Dev or Beta Channels and install the latest operating system and driver updates via Windows Update. Enabling the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggle in Settings > Windows Update ensures earlier access to incremental feature rollouts.
Owners of devices listed under “Coming soon” should monitor Windows Update for upcoming driver releases. The “Shared audio (preview)” tile appears in Quick Settings only after the system receives necessary driver support.
Microsoft recommends using the manufacturer’s companion application for each Bluetooth accessory to confirm LE Audio activation and apply the latest firmware. If a connected device does not appear in the shared audio interface, users should remove and re-pair it to resolve detection issues.
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