Enhancements to Bluetooth audio for Windows 11

Microsoft is making strides in enhancing the audio quality of Bluetooth devices on Windows 11. The tech giant is focusing on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio (LE Audio), a new technology that promises better sound quality than the current Bluetooth Classic Audio.

Until now, Windows systems have been able to play LE Audio to a limited extent since the Windows 11 24H2 feature update. However, the lack of appropriate drivers has been a hindrance. Microsoft is addressing this issue by working with PC manufacturers and motherboard vendors who supply Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules. These companies will provide new driver packages, which users can update through their device manufacturers' support pages. The first updates are expected by the end of the year, likely through a Windows update.

Microsoft is promising these new driver packages to address the lack of appropriate drivers for LE Audio. The company, along with partners, plans to refine LE Audio through firmware and software updates, aiming for CD-quality with a sampling rate of 48,000 Hertz. However, a timeline for achieving this quality has not yet been shared.

Bluetooth LE Audio supports a sampling rate of 32,000 Hertz and the LC3 codec, which provides better sound quality than the current mode, especially when using a microphone. The technology also supports stereo sound, an expansion from the traditional mono sound of Bluetooth Classic Audio.

It's worth noting that not all Bluetooth LE hardware supports LE Audio. However, most wireless modules and headsets with Bluetooth LE support today also support LE Audio. For those who don't, suitable wireless modules can be purchased for less than 20 euros.

Microsoft is also improving the Bluetooth experience on Windows 11 in other ways. Bluetooth wireless is always part of Wi-Fi cards, which are typically inserted into desktop PCs and notebooks via M.2 E-Key. New Wi-Fi 7 cards should support LE Audio.

The Hands-Free Profile is necessary for voice chats, but it significantly reduces audio quality. Microsoft has primarily relied on Bluetooth Classic Audio, but with the introduction of LE Audio, the company is moving towards a more audio-focused future.

While the details are still emerging, it's clear that Microsoft is committed to improving the audio experience on Windows 11. The rollout of LE Audio driver packages and the refinement of LE Audio through updates are steps in the right direction for better audio quality on Bluetooth devices.