Bluetooth LE Audio Is Coming To The Pixel 9

If you own the Google Pixel 9 and use many wireless audio devices, then we have some good news for you. During the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event, Google announced that the new Galaxy S25 smartphones and Pixel 9 devices will support Bluetooth LE Audio.

Upgraded audio

Bluetooth LE Audio isn’t actually a new feature. In fact, older devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 series and the Google Pixel 8 series already support LE Audio. However, Google isn’t forgetting about newer devices and users who might stand to benefit from this free upgrade.

One of the main benefits of Bluetooth LE Audio is a feature called Auracast.

This allows users to broadcast audio from one device to multiple devices. For example, you could be streaming audio from your phone to your headphones. With Auracast, you can simultaneously stream that audio to other devices like wireless speakers or your friend’s headphones.

Users can also tune into broadcasts via Auracast devices. An example would be if you’re at the bar or gym and you want to tune into the game or listen to music through your own headphones or earbuds. With Auracast, your headphones can act as a broadcast receiver so you can listen to the audio in private, minus the distractions.

Other Bluetooth LE benefits

Most of our smartphones and mobile devices, in general, support Bluetooth. However, we may not be aware of different versions of Bluetooth. In the case of the upcoming update, Bluetooth LE Audio is one of those versions.

Bluetooth LE was originally designed for simple data transfer. Bluetooth LE Audio builds on that, but it is made with audio streaming in mind. Given how much focus there is on wireless audio these days, it makes sense.

One benefit of Bluetooth LE Audio is that it consumes less power compared to Bluetooth Classic. If you use a lot of wireless audio devices like headphones or speakers often, you might notice overall better battery life.

It also gives users an upgraded audio experience thanks to the use of the LC3 codec. There are also benefits for those who rely on hearing aids. According to Google, GN Hearing and Oticon Intent hearing aids are compatible with LE Audio.

Users who rely on hearing aids will enjoy the benefits of LE Audio, such as hands-free calling, a way to change presets, and a lower latency connection. This integration will be available on the Pixel 9 with the Android 16 beta. It will also come to the Galaxy S24 with Android 15 in the coming weeks.