June 10, 2022, 11:16 am | Read time: 2 minutes
In early 2020, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) introduced plans for a new feature: wireless audio transmission to virtually unlimited receivers. Now, the concept has a name: Bluetooth Auracast.
Being able to wirelessly transmit music or information via Bluetooth has many advantages. However, the number of receiving devices was previously quite limited. For example, listening to music together through headphones was not possible. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), responsible for developing the eponymous wireless standard, aims to address this issue and has now detailed the plans. The planned new feature is called Bluetooth Auracast and is set to be included in the specifications for Bluetooth LE Audio. What exactly will the feature be able to do, and when will it be available?
Bluetooth Auracast – listening together
Previously, it was possible to connect two devices supporting this standard via Bluetooth. Theoretically, more connections are possible, but if you pair a smartphone with multiple speakers, the music is only actively forwarded to one of them. This problem can only be partially and not seamlessly circumvented with special adapters and/or apps.
With Bluetooth Auracast, the SIG now wants to introduce a feature that theoretically connects an unlimited number of Bluetooth headphones or speakers to one device. Naturally, the function would be spatially limited by the range of the Bluetooth signal.
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When will the feature be available?
It is still difficult to estimate when the first smartphones, notebooks, TVs, or systems with Auracast will hit the market. The SIG mentions a release in the coming months. From then on, they could wirelessly share their sound with Auracast-enabled headphones, speakers, or hearing aids in the vicinity.
In any case, the Bluetooth SIG sees potential for Auracast not only in private settings but also in public spaces. The technology could make audible on headphones what was previously silent: for example, the sound from TVs and displays at train stations, in squares, airports, sports halls, restaurants, or waiting rooms.
Additionally, audio transmissions or announcements that previously only ran through speaker systems could also be received directly with Auracast-enabled Bluetooth headphones or hearing aids. For instance, at conferences or even in cinemas.
With information from dpa