Auracast, the Bluetooth feature that allows devices to connect to a single source without pairing, has been quietly supporting various products since its official introduction in 2023. However, despite being available on many headphones, TVs, and phones, manufacturers rarely talk about it.
One company that consistently touts Auracast capabilities is JBL, which includes the feature in some of its products, such as its Charge 6, Clip 5, and PartyBox Stage 320 speakers, as well as the Tour One M3 headphones. However, even in these cases, there were technological challenges to overcome.
"Integrating Auracast into our products presented several technological challenges," says Sharon Peng, JBL's SVP of global engineering. "While Bluetooth SIG offered a foundational framework, they did not cover all the nuances required for robust implementation." The company has since introduced more structured compliance and testing protocols.
Another company that supports Auracast is LG, which added support to its 2025-model-year OLED and quantum dot LED TVs in the spring. However, when asked about it, LG's representatives were quick to point out that the feature was only mentioned in a press release from Starkey, a hearing aid manufacturer.
The lack of extensive marketing for Auracast is frustrating, especially considering its potential use in the home. The technology is already present in many people's ears and TVs, but without more widespread awareness, it may never reach its full potential.
This trend of companies being hesitant to promote emerging technologies can be seen in other areas, such as Apple's exclusive approach to Dolby Flex Connect speaker technology. While Apple has been successful with this strategy, its adoption of Auracast is still uncertain, and the company has not made any official statements about it so far.
Despite these challenges, there is hope for Auracast among industry leaders. According to Bluetooth SIG's Henry Wong, "Auracast broadcast audio is gaining strong momentum across the industry." The technology's potential benefits are significant, including improved accessibility for those with hearing impairments and more convenient sharing of content in public venues.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Auracast will become widely available and supported. One thing is certain, however: if manufacturers can raise awareness about this feature, the impact on daily life could be substantial.
One company that consistently touts Auracast capabilities is JBL, which includes the feature in some of its products, such as its Charge 6, Clip 5, and PartyBox Stage 320 speakers, as well as the Tour One M3 headphones. However, even in these cases, there were technological challenges to overcome.
"Integrating Auracast into our products presented several technological challenges," says Sharon Peng, JBL's SVP of global engineering. "While Bluetooth SIG offered a foundational framework, they did not cover all the nuances required for robust implementation." The company has since introduced more structured compliance and testing protocols.
Another company that supports Auracast is LG, which added support to its 2025-model-year OLED and quantum dot LED TVs in the spring. However, when asked about it, LG's representatives were quick to point out that the feature was only mentioned in a press release from Starkey, a hearing aid manufacturer.
The lack of extensive marketing for Auracast is frustrating, especially considering its potential use in the home. The technology is already present in many people's ears and TVs, but without more widespread awareness, it may never reach its full potential.
This trend of companies being hesitant to promote emerging technologies can be seen in other areas, such as Apple's exclusive approach to Dolby Flex Connect speaker technology. While Apple has been successful with this strategy, its adoption of Auracast is still uncertain, and the company has not made any official statements about it so far.
Despite these challenges, there is hope for Auracast among industry leaders. According to Bluetooth SIG's Henry Wong, "Auracast broadcast audio is gaining strong momentum across the industry." The technology's potential benefits are significant, including improved accessibility for those with hearing impairments and more convenient sharing of content in public venues.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Auracast will become widely available and supported. One thing is certain, however: if manufacturers can raise awareness about this feature, the impact on daily life could be substantial.