Here’s full guide to connect Bluetooth headphones to the Xbox One, Series S, or Series X

One might assume that it's possible to link any Bluetooth headphones or wireless earbuds, like Sony's noise-cancelling headphones or Apple's AirPods, to an Xbox. Nonetheless, Microsoft chose not to use the regular Bluetooth protocol and developed a unique Xbox-specific frequency that connects controllers and headsets to the gaming console.

However, there is a solution that enables you to use any Bluetooth headphones or earbuds with your Xbox. You need to obtain a Bluetooth adapter. If you're prepared to spend extra money to use your preferred headphones, continue reading to discover how to link your Xbox with Bluetooth headphones, as well as a few potential issues to be mindful of.

How to connect Bluetooth headphones to the Xbox One, Series S, or Series X?

To establish a Bluetooth connection between an Xbox and headphones, you require additional equipment, such as a newer Xbox controller (Series S/X), Bluetooth headphones/earbuds, and a Bluetooth adapter meant for use with newer Xbox controllers. There are several suitable options available on Amazon, and the one I tried was a Bluetooth adapter priced at $36.

Charge Bluetooth adapter

Ensure that you fully charge the adapter before using it for the first time. Although my adapter had some charge left, extended gaming sessions may be in your future. If you purchased the adapter that I recommended, it should have a battery life of approximately 10 hours.

Connect the adapter and the controller

To begin gaming, connect the adapter to the base of your Xbox controller and then press and hold the power button on the adapter to switch it on. Activate pairing mode by double-pressing the power button on the adapter, and you can verify that it's in pairing mode by observing the LED, which should flash twice in rapid succession every second.

Pair headphones and the adapter

Afterwards, activate the pairing mode on your wireless earbuds or headphones. For earbuds such as Pixel Buds Pro or AirPods, this entails placing them in the case and then long-pressing the button on the back of the case until the light begins to flash.

The adapter will locate the headset and complete the pairing procedure after a few seconds. It may take a few attempts to establish the connection.
Switch off mic and power

After connecting, you can wear your headphones or earbuds and commence playing. The adapter will enable you to hear all system audio, friends' audio, and gameplay audio.

Nonetheless, your microphone audio won't originate from your paired audio device. Instead, the adapter incorporates a microphone that is utilized to capture your chat audio.

FAQs:

Can you connect your Xbox with AirPods?
Yes

Is it necessary to use Bluetooth headset with Xbox?
No