In the ever-growing gaming world, Xbox consoles are potent platforms for immersive experiences. However, if you’re an AirPods user, you might be disappointed to learn that Xbox consoles lack built-in Bluetooth support, making it seemingly impossible to connect your AirPods directly for audio output.
But fear not! While the roadblock exists, there are ways to bridge the gap between your AirPods and Xbox for an enhanced gaming experience. In this guide, we’ll explore three straightforward methods to get your AirPods working seamlessly with your Xbox and considerations to ensure smooth gameplay. Let’s dive in and unlock the potential of your AirPods on Xbox!
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Three easy ways to use AirPods with Xbox
You can use your smartphone’s Bluetooth to use the Xbox mobile app and connect to the AirPods. On your Xbox One or Series X/S, navigate to Settings > Devices & connections > Remote features.
Ensure “Enable remote features” is checked. Connect your AirPods to your phone using Bluetooth. Open the Xbox app on your smartphone (iPhone or Android) and sign in with the same account you use on your Xbox. While in the app, you can stream the Xbox audio to your phone, transmitting it to your AirPods.
If your TV has built-in Bluetooth, you can connect your AirPods directly to it and use them for Xbox audio. Check your TV’s manual or settings to see if it has Bluetooth and how to enable it for audio output.
Put your AirPods in pairing mode and search your TV’s Bluetooth settings for available devices. Once connected, configure your TV to output audio through Bluetooth. Note that this method might introduce some audio delay.
Using a Bluetooth adapter: You can purchase a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into your Xbox controller’s 3.5mm jack or a USB port. Look for a Bluetooth adapter designed explicitly for Xbox controllers.
Pair your AirPods with the Bluetooth adapter according to the adapter’s instructions. Connect the adapter to your controller and configure your Xbox audio settings to output through the adapter.
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Understanding audio delay and Mic issues
The first thing to consider with these workarounds is the
Audio Delay: Using the smartphone app or TV’s Bluetooth might introduce a slight audio delay, which is distracting in games where precise audio cues are essential.
Microphone Limitations: These methods won’t provide microphone functionality for your AirPods while using Xbox. You’ll need a separate headset with a microphone for voice chat.
While there’s no native Bluetooth support for AirPods on Xbox, these workarounds can still allow you to use them for audio with some limitations. Choose the method that best suits your setup and needs.