Without a dedicated gaming headset? No worries, we have you covered on how to link your reliable AirPods to your Xbox One.
AirPods, like most wireless earbuds, employ Bluetooth technology to pair with various devices. Thus, it’s understandable to presume that they would seamlessly integrate with Xbox One.
However, a direct connection between AirPods and Xbox One is not possible because the console does not inherently support Bluetooth audio. Instead, it uses its unique wireless technology known as Xbox Wireless.
Nevertheless, connecting AirPods to your Xbox One is achievable, but it requires some clever tactics involving third-party software or devices. Let’s explore all the feasible methods you can utilize in the following sections!
How to Connect AirPods to Xbox One via the Xbox App
The Xbox One’s lack of support for Bluetooth audio devices means that a direct connection to your AirPods isn’t feasible. However, a handy detour exists through the Xbox mobile app.
The Xbox Companion app was originally engineered to stream gameplay to handheld devices. This functionality can be cleverly extended to relay Xbox audio to your mobile device and subsequently, to your AirPods – turning your mobile device into an effective audio bridge. One drawback to note is that while employing the Xbox App for audio streaming, the microphone feature on your AirPods will be inactive.
Below are the steps to seamlessly link your AirPods to the Xbox One using the Xbox Companion app:
Preparation Stage: First things first, your Xbox must be permitted to interact with the companion app. Press the Xbox button on your Xbox One console to open the main menu.
Navigation: Proceed to the ‘Profile & System‘ tab and select ‘Settings‘.
Setting Adjustments: Now, move to ‘Devices & Connections‘, select ‘Remote features‘, and ensure the ‘Enable remote features’ box is checked. Your Xbox is now ready to interface with external devices.
AirPods Connection: Next, pair your AirPods to your phone or tablet, ensuring that your device is successfully receiving audio through them.
Xbox Companion App Activation: Open the Xbox Companion App on your handheld device and sign in with your Microsoft account – the same one you use for your Xbox One.
Remote Play Activation: Locate the remote play icon at the top right-hand corner (next to the notifications icon). This symbol resembles an Xbox with emanating lines. Select ‘Remote play on this device‘.
Game On: Finally, start playing your favorite game on your Xbox. The gameplay – along with the audio – should stream to your mobile device, and subsequently be delivered through your AirPods. Now you’re all set for an immersive gaming adventure!
How to Connect AirPods to Xbox One via Bluetooth Adapter
If you’re seeking an alternative method to link your AirPods to your Xbox One, a Bluetooth adapter could be your solution. This compact device can be plugged into your Xbox controller, activating Bluetooth capability and setting the stage for your AirPods to be paired.
Opting for a Bluetooth adapter can be advantageous if you’d prefer to sidestep streaming via your phone, thereby avoiding potential audio delays. Nevertheless, it’s important to bear in mind that the physical presence of the adapter on your controller could make handling a bit more cumbersome, as it is attached to the bottom and might upset the balance or interfere with your grip.
It’s worth noting that Xbox One does not come bundled with a Bluetooth adapter, requiring you to purchase one separately.
If you’re considering investing in an adapter, exercise caution and ensure you select the appropriate type. You’ll need an adapter sporting a 3.5mm audio plug, not a USB connector.
Here are the steps to follow when using a Bluetooth adapter to establish a connection between your AirPods and Xbox One:
- Get a Bluetooth adapter. There are a number of Bluetooth adapters available on the market, and most of them will work with your Xbox One.
- Plug the Bluetooth adapter into your Xbox One. The Bluetooth adapter will usually have a USB connector.
- Put your AirPods in pairing mode. To do this, hold down the Setup button on the back of the AirPods case until the light flashes white.
- On your Xbox One, go to Settings > Devices & Connections > Bluetooth.
- Select your AirPods from the list of available devices.
- Once your AirPods are connected, you should be able to hear audio from your Xbox One through your AirPods.
Note: You may experience some latency issues when using a Bluetooth adapter. This is because Bluetooth is not as fast as a wired connection. If you are playing competitive games, then you may want to consider using a wired connection instead.
How to Use AirPods for Xbox Party Chat
AirPods come equipped with a built-in microphone, which many users find handy for audio calls. This naturally leads to the question: can you employ the AirPods’ mic for an Xbox party chat?
Indeed, you can, but there’s a caveat: this is only possible if you are not simultaneously using your AirPods to listen to game audio.
The design of AirPods allows them to perform one function at a time when paired with your Xbox One. Thus, you can choose to stream game audio or engage in a chat with your gaming companions, but both functionalities cannot be operational concurrently.
Here’s the method to configure party chat, employing your AirPods as a microphone:
1. Connect via Xbox App:
The Xbox App provides the easiest (and free) steps to use AirPods with an Xbox console. This method leverages the remote play functions of the Xbox mobile app. While this app is designed to stream gameplay to your phone screen, it can also be used to wirelessly transmit Xbox audio to an external output like AirPods. Here are the steps to follow:
- Press the Xbox button to open the Guide menu on your Xbox console.
- Navigate to the Profile & system tab.
- Select Settings.
- Navigate to the Devices & connections tab.
- Select Remote features.
- Ensure the Enable remote features checkbox is filled.
After setting up your Xbox console for remote play, you can now start wirelessly streaming your gameplay to your phone. The Xbox app allows players to stream a low-latency feed from your Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S. You can connect your AirPods to your phone, open the remote play stream, and enjoy stereo sound from your favorite titles.
2. Using a Bluetooth Adapter:
A potential solution for connecting your AirPods to Xbox involves using a Bluetooth adapter. While not perfect, this approach is often the most direct and straightforward one. A popular choice among users is the Skull & Co. Xbox AudioBox adapter, which has the capability to enable Bluetooth 5.0 and add Bluetooth audio support to Xbox controllers.
The functionality of this adapter extends to converting game sound output via a 3.5mm headphone jack, thereby making it a comprehensive solution for those looking to use their AirPods with Xbox. In terms of affordability, this adapter is relatively budget-friendly, offering value for its functionality.
However, it’s worth noting that the adapter comes with some drawbacks. Most notably, it does not support microphone usage when paired with devices like AirPods. Despite the adapter having a built-in microphone, its quality leaves much to be desired, with numerous reviews pointing out this issue.
3. Connect via TV or Monitor
If your TV or monitor supports Bluetooth audio, it could be the best workaround. In this case, your TV acts as the middleman for your Xbox console, offloading your game sound to AirPods or any Bluetooth headphones.
However, this method doesn’t allow you to chat via Xbox Party Chat or if simultaneously using chat services on other devices. While the setup process varies between brands and models, you’ll want to dive into your TV or monitor settings and enable Bluetooth.
With your AirPods in pairing mode, connect them using the TV menu, providing a direct link between your Xbox and your earbuds
Using your AirPods as a Microphone:
- First, turn on your Xbox One and connect your AirPods to your phone or tablet.
- Open your Xbox mobile app and sign in with your Microsoft account that you use on your Xbox One.
- Select the hamburger menu in the top-left corner, then select the Console Streaming option.
- Your device will begin searching for your Xbox One. Make sure your console is turned on and on the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device.
- Once your Xbox One is found and paired with your mobile device, you can now start streaming Xbox One audio to your mobile device.
- Ensure your AirPods are connected to your phone or tablet, and the audio from your Xbox One should be streamed to your AirPods.
- You can then use your AirPods as a microphone for party chat on your Xbox One
However, it’s important to note that using your AirPods as a microphone on Xbox One isn’t a flawless experience.
It’s not officially supported by Microsoft, and there can be issues with the quality of the audio and connectivity. Plus, this workaround doesn’t allow you to use the microphone and listen to the game audio simultaneously.
If you want to use your AirPods for both game audio and party chat, you might need to consider other options like purchasing a Bluetooth adapter with a 3.5mm audio plug that can be connected to the Xbox One controller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect AirPods to TV?
Yes, you can connect AirPods to most TVs that have Bluetooth. To do this, put your AirPods in pairing mode and then select them from the list of available devices on your TV.
How to connect AirPods?
To connect AirPods, put them in pairing mode by pressing and holding the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white. Then, on your device, open the Bluetooth settings and select “AirPods” from the list of available devices.
Do AirPods have a mic?
Yes, AirPods have a built-in microphone that you can use to make phone calls, record voice memos, and control Siri.
Can you connect AirPods to switch?
Yes, you can connect AirPods to the Nintendo Switch by using a Bluetooth adapter. There are a number of Bluetooth adapters available on the market, and most of them will work with the Switch.
How do I connect my AirPods to my TV without Bluetooth?
If your TV does not have Bluetooth, you can use a wired connection to connect your AirPods. To do this, purchase a 3.5mm audio cable and connect one end to the headphone jack on your TV and the other end to the Lightning port on your AirPods case.
How do I know if my TV has Bluetooth?
To check if your TV has Bluetooth, look for the Bluetooth logo on the TV or in the TV’s manual. You can also check the TV’s settings menu for a Bluetooth option.
Final Words
The optimal way to ensure a flawless gaming experience on your Xbox One, Series S, or Series X is by utilizing Xbox’s proprietary wireless gaming headsets.
Nevertheless, this may not always be feasible or the most suitable solution for every user. With the alternative methods you’ve now learned for connecting your AirPods to your Xbox One, you can not only save money but also enjoy the immersive gaming experience that these wireless earbuds offer.
We’re curious to hear about your experiences. Which of these techniques have you found most effective? Have you discovered other unique ways of using your AirPods with Xbox? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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