Microsoft has released a significant update for its 2024 Xbox Wireless Headset, introducing Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio capabilities. The addition of Bluetooth LE Audio is expected to enhance the headset’s performance, potentially leading to improved battery life, reduced latency, and clearer voice chat experiences, especially when used with Microsoft’s Xbox handheld devices like the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.
Unlike Bluetooth Classic, which tends to sacrifice audio quality during two-way voice communication due to higher bandwidth requirements, Bluetooth LE Audio promises a seamless experience without compromising sound quality. This update aligns with Microsoft’s previous emphasis on ‘super wideband stereo,’ ensuring a high-quality audio experience for users on Windows 11.
Moreover, the introduction of Bluetooth LE Audio enables users to leverage Microsoft’s shared audio Insider Preview feature, allowing simultaneous audio streaming to two sets of headphones or a combination of headphones and speakers on a PC. While this feature is not yet available for Xbox Ally models, Microsoft has indicated its future implementation.
Although the Bluetooth LE Audio update is exclusive to the 2024 version of the Xbox Wireless Headset, users can enjoy these enhancements at no additional cost. This update follows Microsoft’s recent price adjustment on the headsets, which saw a $20 increase from $99 to $119. Overall, this update not only improves the functionality of the headset but also hints at potential convergence between Xbox and PC platforms.
Source: The Verge
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