Windows Insider user uncovers hidden 'Shared audio' functionality in recent build, enabling swift switching of audio output for multiple devices
New "Shared Audio" Feature Discovered in Windows Insider Builds
A new feature, dubbed "Shared Audio," has been discovered in recent Windows Insider builds, allowing for simultaneous audio output through multiple devices. However, it's important to note that this feature has not yet been officially confirmed for mainstream release by Microsoft.
The "Shared audio" feature can be accessed through a 'Shared audio' button in the Quick Settings panel. By clicking this button, users are presented with a selection of audio devices connected to their computer. To utilize this feature and other experimental features from Microsoft, users need to join the Canary Channel of the Windows Insider program.
Compatibility with Multiple Bluetooth Devices
Regarding compatibility with multiple Bluetooth devices, this detail remains unclear. The feature was found in Insider builds and allows selecting multiple audio devices in Quick Settings, but it is not documented whether these include multiple Bluetooth devices or only wired/physically connected speakers. There is no official confirmation yet on Bluetooth support or multi-device Bluetooth audio output via this feature.
The Canary Channel
The Canary Channel is a testing ground for new features, offering users the opportunity to access these features before they are released to the general public. It's important to note that joining the Canary Channel does not ensure that users will have the same features as other Insiders. Users should be aware that they are participating in the testing process when they join the Canary Channel.
Users should be prepared for potential issues and instability when using the Canary Channel builds. These builds are not a final version of Windows and may contain bugs. Users might encounter unexpected issues if they have these updates turned on.
In summary, the "Shared audio" feature, if released, would simplify current workarounds and enhance multi-audio device use cases, particularly on laptops and gaming devices. However, as of August 2025, no more detailed official information or roadmap toward release is available. For those seeking alternative solutions, there are third-party apps like OBS, Voicemeeter, or Audio Router that can be used for this purpose, but they can be complicated.
The "Shared audio" feature, if released, could potentially support multiple Bluetooth devices, but the exact compatibility remains unclear. To test and access this feature before its mainstream release, users should join the Canary Channel of the Windows Insider program.
