Tech Guides / Headphone Guides

How do Bluetooth headphones work?

Bluetooth headphones receive audio wirelessly from a phone, tablet or computer using a short-range radio connection. After a one-time pairing, the device compresses audio using a codec such as SBC or AAC, sends it to the headphones, and the headphones decode it and play it through their built-in drivers, powered by a rechargeable battery.

Pairing

  1. Switch the headphones on and hold the power or Bluetooth button until the light flashes.
  2. Open Bluetooth settings on your device and select the headphones.
  3. Next time, they reconnect automatically when switched on.

Range

Most Bluetooth headphones work reliably up to about 10 metres. Walls, bodies and other wireless signals reduce range.

Multipoint

Multipoint headphones stay connected to two devices at once, such as a laptop and a phone, so you can switch without re-pairing.

Latency

Bluetooth adds a small delay. It is rarely noticeable for music, and most video apps compensate for it, but it can matter for fast-paced gaming.

Frequently asked questions

Do Bluetooth headphones work with laptops?

Yes. Any laptop with Bluetooth can pair with Bluetooth headphones through its Bluetooth settings.

Why do my Bluetooth headphones keep disconnecting?

Common causes are distance, obstacles, low battery or interference. Try moving closer, charging the headphones and removing then re-pairing them.

Bluetooth headphones

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