When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One – Getting Started
Despite the popularity of Xbox consoles, including Xbox One, they do not natively support Bluetooth audio connections for headphones due to their use of proprietary wireless technologies. However, Microsoft provides alternative connectivity options, such as the Xbox Wireless protocol for compatible devices.
Discovering that your new Bluetooth headphones cannot directly connect to your Xbox One can be disappointing. Fortunately, there are ways to use Bluetooth headphones with your Xbox One, circumventing the lack of direct Bluetooth connectivity.
This article will explore methods to connect Bluetooth headphones to an Xbox One, including Bluetooth transmitters and connections through a PC or TV.
Connecting Non-Compatible Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One
The Xbox One does not support Bluetooth headphones directly due to its proprietary wireless technology. However, you can still connect your Bluetooth headphones to the console using alternative methods, although some features, like the microphone, might not work as expected.
Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One Via a Bluetooth Transmitter
A Bluetooth transmitter can bridge the gap between your Xbox One and Bluetooth headphones. Here’s how to connect your headphones using a Bluetooth transmitter:
1. Turn on the transmitter by holding the power button for about 3 seconds until you see a blue or red light flickering.
Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One
2. Connect the transmitter to the 3.5mm port on your Xbox One controller.
3. Turn on your Bluetooth headphones and activate pairing mode.
4. Hold down the multifunction button on the transmitter for about 5 seconds to pair it with your headphones.
5. Bring your headphones closer to the transmitter to ensure a faster connection.
Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One Via PC
You can also indirectly connect your Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox One by streaming Xbox games to a Windows PC via the Xbox Companion App and then connecting your Bluetooth headphones to the PC.
1. Open the Xbox PC app and sign into your Microsoft account.
2. Click the ‘Connection’ icon on the app’s left-hand menu.
3. Click ‘Add a device’ in the window’s top-right corner labeled ‘Connect to your Xbox One.’
4. Once your console is found, click ‘Connect.’
5. If necessary, manually enter your console’s IP address and click ‘Connect.’
Connect your Bluetooth headphones to your PC to receive audio from your Xbox One.
Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox One Via TV
If your TV supports Bluetooth, you can connect your Xbox One to your TV and then use your TV’s Bluetooth connection to pair it with your headphones.
1. Connect an HDMI cable from your console to your TV.
2. Set the TV input to the HDMI port connected to your Xbox.
3. Pair your Bluetooth headphones with your TV to wirelessly receive the console’s audio.
Note: Xbox One consoles use a wireless protocol optimized for gaming, which is why direct Bluetooth audio connections are not supported. Alternative methods like using a Bluetooth transmitter or connecting through a PC or TV provide a workaround for this limitation.
Final Thought
In summary, while Xbox One consoles do not directly support Bluetooth headphones, several workarounds allow you to enjoy wireless audio. Whether you opt for a Bluetooth transmitter, PC streaming, or TV connection, you can use your Bluetooth headphones with your Xbox One and enhance your gaming experience.
See Also
How to Use a Laptop as Monitor for Xbox One