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How to Connect Bluetooth Speakers to an Xbox One

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Updated October 21, 2022

The best speakers produce a wide range of superb audio experiences, whether music, cinema, or gaming. And the best Bluetooth speakers are popular because they allow users to free themselves from the limiting nature of audio cables and USB ports. For those looking to set up a wireless external speaker to their gaming console, we’ll be explaining how to connect Bluetooth speakers to Xbox One.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Xbox Ones do not come with built-in Bluetooth audio device functionality.
To connect a Bluetooth speaker to your Xbox, download the Xbox Remote Play mobile app to your phone.
Ensure the phone and Xbox are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that the Bluetooth speaker is paired to the phone. Then sign into the remote play app.

We also have more content covering wireless connectivity. To learn more, check out our resource explaining how to connect Bluetooth speakers to a PC.

How to Connect Bluetooth Speakers to an Xbox One

The sad news is that Xbox One is not designed with Bluetooth audio connectivity. However, a Bluetooth speaker can be a great way to boost the sound quality and increase the gaming experience. So to connect a wireless speaker, the user has used a dash of roundabout creativity using mobile devices.

Insider Tip

Remote Play will work best when using a wired or five gigahertz internet connection.

Fortunately, however, there are ways to connect your speaker, and while it’s not as simple as it could be, the process is not overcomplicated.

As mentioned, we give all sorts of tips on Bluetooth connections. In the realm of smart home devices, you can read our guide on how to connect a Goole Home to Bluetooth speakers.

STEP 1 Connect Phone and Xbox to the Same Wi-Fi Network

Go to your Wi-Fi settings and ensure that the console and phone are on the same network.

STEP 2 Turn on Remote Features

Go to your Xbox general settings. Press on “Device & Connections.”
Then press “Remote Features.”
Check the box to “Enable Remote Features.”
Then, go to the box that says “Power Mode.” Set this box to “Instant On.”

STEP 3 Connect Bluetooth Speaker to Phone

Pair the Bluetooth speaker with your phone.
Open the Bluetooth settings on your phone, and hold down the pairing button to make the speaker discoverable.

STEP 4 Download the Xbox App to your Phone

Enter your phone’s app store and find the Xbox Entertainment App.
Download the app, create an account, and sign in.

STEP 5 Connect to Xbox

Once signed in, press the connection icon (Xbox with a Wi-Fi signal) in the upper right-hand corner of the app.
Then press the option that says “Remote Play on this Device.”

STEP 6 Connect Controller

When the Xbox interface appears on the phone, connect an Xbox controller.
Use the remote control to test an app or song and see that the sound output comes through the speaker.

Warning

Using the Xbox Remote Play app will drain your phone’s battery quickly. Ensure you have the phone plugged into a charger while using the app.

STAT: About 88% of all wireless speakers sold in the United States are Bluetooth-enabled. (source)

How to Connect Bluetooth Speakers to an Xbox One FAQs

Will Bluetooth speakers connect to an Xbox 360?

Unfortunately, no. The Xbox 360, like the Xbox One, doesn't have a built-in Bluetooth functionality.

Does using the remote play app cause lags?

No, the amount of lag depends on the strength of your internet connection

Is there a way to connect a Bluetooth speaker without your phone?

Yes. You can plug a Bluetooth transmitter into the back of your Xbox.

Nathan Rizzuti

An abiding consumer, Nathan cares a great deal about advocating and informing fellow users on their latest rights, options, and news updates concerning their beloved and expanding assembly of gadgets.