Imagine a massive auditorium where thousands of people from all corners of the globe are gathered together, all focused intently on a single speaker at the front. But here's the twist - that speaker is seamlessly delivering their presentation in multiple languages simultaneously, and each member of the diverse audience is hearing them speak in their native tongue. Sounds like sci-fi, right? Well, it's actually possible today thanks to a new technology called Auracast. Auracast allows a single device to broadcast multiple audio streams that any nearby listener can tune into with a compatible receiver. It's a simple yet revolutionary idea that could transform events, transportation, and cities in exciting new ways. In this explainer, we'll walk through how Auracast works, what you need to use it, and why it may forever change how we experience shared spaces. What is Auracast? Auracast, in essence, is a nifty Bluetooth functionality that empowers a primary device, be it a television or smartphone, to beam out one or more audio streams to an unlimited array of audio receivers – ranging from earbuds and speakers to hearing aids. The coolest bit is that those on the receiving end get to cherry-pick which audio stream they desire their listening devices to sync up with. The technology is supported by Bluetooth Low Energy, a low-energy wireless standard rolled out in 2022. With Auracast, gone are the days of headphones isolating us from those around us. Instead, environments like airports and gyms can become more communal and engaging. Travellers at the airport can hear announcements specific to the gate they are near to. Meanwhile, gym-goers can tune into specific workout playlists being broadcast throughout the fitness centre rather than having to listen to the same track. Or one person can seamlessly play songs and podcasts on their friends’ devices. The possibilities are many. What are some of Auracast’s coolest features? Of course, the biggest perk is that a device as simple as a single smartphone, tablet, or computer can transmit audio that is picked up by unlimited listeners simultaneously. But the protocol can also transmit in uncompressed CD quality instead of lossy Bluetooth standards like SBC and AAC. Another advantage is that listeners won't have to pair or connect to tune in - they just scan for available public or private Auracast streams broadcast over Bluetooth LE Audio and start listening. Auracast also enables assistive listening applications, letting those with hearing impairments tune into enhanced venue audio feeds that clarify speech against background noise. Public venues can broadcast multi-language translations of live announcements, letting international visitors listen in their native tongue. Since Auracast leverages the ultra-low latency and energy efficiency of LE Audio, listeners benefit from minimal lag and extended battery life. The audio owner can also optionally encrypt streams to control access. Ultimately, with Auracast built on the universal Bluetooth standard, both broadcasters and listeners benefit from an easy-to-use, widely supported, high-quality wireless audio distribution platform that wasn’t before possible with classic Bluetooth alone. How does Auracast work? The key is that both your headphones and the device streaming audio, whether a TV or smartphone, need Auracast support. With compatible products, tuning in is straightforward. One method is browsing available Auracast broadcasts like scanning for Wi-Fi networks. Your headphones will detect broadcasts in range, allowing you to select the one you want. Another option is scanning a QR code associated with the streaming device, instantly connecting your headphones. Finally, NFC-enabled headphones could potentially link to Auracast by tapping the streaming device, similar to contactless payments. What do I need for Auracast? Bluetooth Auracast is still a relatively new technology, so device support is limited but rapidly expanding. Currently, most devices that support Auracast are flagship devices launched within the past year or two. This includes select high-end Samsung TVs like their Neo QLED 8K and 2023 microLED models. Newer smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S23, Google Pixel 7, OnePlus 10T, and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 also support Auracast. The latest laptops and wireless earbuds from top brands are adopting Auracast as well. While the selection is slim for now, we are on the brink of seeing major growth in Auracast compatibility. Any device equipped with Bluetooth 5.2 can support Auracast via a software update. Meanwhile, all products with Bluetooth 5.3 or higher have Auracast enabled by default. For now, focus on devices that specifically mention Bluetooth 5.2, LE Audio support, and Auracast compatibility if you want the latest in streaming audio technology. The Auracast ecosystem is still young but expanding rapidly across all Bluetooth-supporting electronics.
