Why Does My Xbox One Controller Say That It Has Bluetooth
When you purchase an Xbox One today, you have the choice to use a wireless controller with or without Bluetooth.
If youre unsure of what model you have at home, the Bluetooth option has the plastic around the Xbox button as part of the controllers face. When it doesnt support this technology, the plastic is part of the top with the bumpers location.
You still connect to your Xbox One by using the consoles wireless technology. Although the controller is Bluetooth-enabled, it doesnt support attachments.
That means you cant use chat pads, headsets, or the Xbox Stereo Headset Adapter.
What you can use Bluetooth for in this situation is to connect to another device, such as a PC, for playing games.
Youll want to keep these things in mind while managing that connection.
- Bluetooth requires the latest Windows update to work with your PCs operating system.
- Updating your controller will encourage a better overall performance.
- Connection reliability is dependent on the Bluetooth card being accessed.
- You can typically connect just one Xbox controller through a Bluetooth connection successfully.
How To Connect An Xbox Wireless
If you own a headset that is capable of leveraging Microsofts exclusive technology , connecting your headset shouldnt give you much trouble if you know what to do.
Weve outlined the steps below, but keep in mind that some things might be different depending on the headset that youre using.
1.1 How to Connect an Xbox Wireless-Compatible Headset with Dongle
If your headset comes with a wireless dongle, things couldnt be any easier for you. Just plug in the dongle into the USB port of your dongle and turn on your headset. Thats it.
After a couple of seconds, you should see your headset being recognized and youre ready to play.
Why Is Connecting Bluetooth Headphones So Complicated
The short answer is that, unlike all the other console manufacturers, Microsoft has decided to go a different route with Xbox One and with the next-gen versions .
To put it simply, Xbox one doesnt support Bluetooth connections as it uses a proprietary protocol of connecting wirelessly This technology is called Xbox Wireless.
Unlike Bluetooth which uses the broad 2.4GHz Radiofrequency, Xbox Wireless uses a higher radiofrequency. While this facilitates an improved audio experience and a reduced latency, it also means that consumers are encouraged to get a peripheral launched by Microsoft in order to get the best experience.
As of now, there are two only types of headsets that are compatible with Xbox One:
Theres also a third category of headsets that are BT only, and if you own one of these, youll, unfortunately, need to jump through some hoops in order to use it with your Xbox console.
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Connecting Bluetooth Headphones With An Optical Cable
Another method of attaching your Bluetooth to your Xbox is by finding yourself a Bluetooth adapter that can support an optical connection. This is a cable that is often used to hook up audio equipment to your Xbox, mainly things like soundbars. This makes it perfect for adapting to your wireless Bluetooth headphones.
Often with a Bluetooth transmitter, there might be an optical connection port next to the standard 3.5mm port. All you have to do is synchronize this connector with your Xbox One, which should have an optical port in the back of the box.
All you have to do is connect your Bluetooth transmitter to the S/PDIF port that you find in the rear of your console and switch your transmitter from 3.5mm to S/PDIF if that is an option on your device.
Once all these devices have been connected, simply switch on your headphones and wait for the Bluetooth transmitter to register them.
The one main drawback for online gamers is the fact that due to the optical being an output-only cable, you wont be able to transmit any audio through your Xbox. This means that you wont be able to chat with any of your friends during an online game. If you are an avid player, then the option of not being able to chat definitely wont appeal.
Other versions of the Xbox dont have the optical cable at all, meaning that you wont be able to connect your Bluetooth transmitter.
How Do I Connect Bluetooth Headphones To My Xbox One

#Solution 1: Connect your Bluetooth Headphones Directly to your Xbox One Wireless Controller. If you have the latest Xbox One wireless controller, then there will be a 3.5mm headphone jack present on the controller. You can directly connect your Bluetooth headphones to the Xbox One wireless controller and use the headphones.
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S To Connect Compatible Xbox One Wireless Headsets
To connect Xbox One with its compatible wireless headset, follow the procedure given below.
First and foremost, press and hold the power button until the LED light is on, which turns the headphone to the Pairing mode.
Then, press the consoles power button to turn it on.
Following locate the Pairing button and enable it.
Furthermore, search for the Connect button and press and hold it to pair the device.
Now, the device will be successfully paired.
S To Pair Xbox One To A Bluetooth Headphone Without Using Audio Jack
The steps given below will help you to pair Xbox One with Bluetooth headphones without using the Audio Jack.
In the beginning, plug the headset adapter into the port, which is at the bottom of the controller.
Then, join it to the wire dangling from the end of the headset adapter.
Following, pair your headphone to the device.
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Xbox Wireless Instead Of Bluetooth
The absence of Bluetooth connectivity is compensated by the Xbox Wirelesswireless protocol, developed by Microsoft. The largest advantages of this type of connection are shorter latency, more stable signal, and transmission of audio in higher quality in comparison with the 2.4 GHz radio frequency. The Xbox Wireless just operates at a higher frequency than Bluetooth.
The Xbox-compliant headsets can be of two types:
- A wireless donglemust be plugged in the controllers USB input. Such headsets are the cheapest.
- Directly to the console. Its also a bit pricier than the first one.
This is how you pair the Xbox-compliant headset with the console:
Step #1. Turn both the headphones and the console on.
Step #2. Push the Pairing button on the Xbox. When the buttons indicator turns blue, it indicates that the pairing mode is ready.
Step #3. Switch your headphones into Pairing mode.
Step #4. When the LEDs stop blinking, you should see the Headset Assigned notification.
Note that if you already have a decent gaming Bluetooth headset, you wont see much of a benefit in purchasing a more expensive Microsoft headset. Furthermore, it wont be compatible with any other devices or gaming consoles besides your Xbox. If you dont want to deal with these restrictions, our instructions on how to connect wireless headphones to the Xbox One will help. Still, if you want an option that will allow for direct connection, the Xbox-compatible headset is the only possible option.
Do You Need A Wireless Headset
The main appeal of going wireless with your sound is that you won’t have cords lying all over the place, but the Xbox One’s setup means that’s not necessarily going to be an issue. A wired headset plugs directly into the controller and lets you receive both game and chat audio without running a longer cord to your TV or soundboard. The only cord involved goes between your headphones and the controller you’re already holding, which can still help with the clutter.
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Does Xbox One Have Bluetooth
Generally, the Xbox one does not have Bluetooth connection capabilities. This surprising fact was released in 2013, even at that time wireless technology was being used across numerous devices. The Xbox Wireless was named by Microsoft and it is used to connect the Xbox One controllers to the console, same connection can be used for headphones. Also, it provides a wider range of sound options and much less latency such as:
- LucidSound LS35X
- Turtle Beach Stealth 600
Connection Of Wireless Headphones To Xbox Controller Without Jack Audio:
If you want to connect wireless headphones to the Xbox controller, you need to know two essential things: Bluetooth transmitter and Xbox one stereo headset adapter. Remember that the first round of Xbox one controllers doesnt have any 3.5mm audio jack. So either you are trying to connect wireless or wired headphones, you need to use an Xbox stereo headset adapter. However, this kit is specially designed to connect wired headphones to console the devices, but you can still use it to connect wireless headphones to Xbox one.
- First of all, go at the bottom of the Xbox controller to pop the headphones adapter
- Grab the Bluetooth transmitter to attach the 3.5mm
- Directly pair the headphone TO Xbox one.
- Using optical to pair wireless headphones to Xbox one:
This is another option you can use to connect your wireless headphones to Xbox one. You have to use a Bluetooth adapter that supports digital optical connections. Basically, this system is specially designed to hook up with soundbars, but it is also capable of bringing Bluetooth to Xbox one.
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Should I Be Using Bluetooth Headphones
If youre not already using Bluetooth headphones, you may want to experiment with this technology first to see if you like it.
It is useful to get the wires out of the way. If you get tangled up in your controller during a tense moment, disconnecting your microphone can disrupt the entire gameplay sequence for everyone.
You can experience the same problem by going out of range of your Bluetooth transmitter with the Xbox One.
Since the only time you need a cord with Bluetooth headphones is to charge your battery, it is a convenient way to enjoy gaming. You get the freedom of movement you want without as many restrictions.
The best Bluetooth transmitter will help you achieve the results you want. Get your equipment, boot up your favorite game, and earn your victory.
How To Connect Bluetooth Headsets To Xbox One Using Optical

There is a third way to get Bluetooth on your Xbox: using a Bluetooth adapter that supports digital optical connections. This connection is typically for hooking up sound bars, but you can also use it to bring Bluetooth to your Xbox.
This wont apply to every transmitter but, alongside a 3.5mm port, some also have a digital optical cable. And at the back of your Xbox One, youll find a S/PDIF optical audio out port.
- Connect your Bluetooth transmitters digital optical to the S/PDIF port to the rear of the Xbox.
- Switch transmitter mode from 3.5mm to S/PDIF if your device supports it.
- Connect your headphones to the transmitter via Bluetooth.
Using digital optical out isnt perfect, though. Because its output-only, you wont be able to chat to your friends on Xbox One.
If youre gaming on the Xbox Series X|S, unfortunately the digital output connection is missing from the console, with Xbox head Phil Spencer all but saying not enough people used the port to warrant spending money on it.
However, most modern TVs also have an optical port, so you can always connect the transmitter that way.
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How To Connect Any Bluetooth Headphones To Xbox One And Xbox Series S/x
If you have a good Bluetooth-powered headset that you want to use for your Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S console, the good news is there are ways you can do it. The bad news is youll have to go through some hoops in order to get around the fact that both the Xbox One and the Xbox Series S lack Bluetooth capability.
If Your Headset Doesn’t Have A Wireless Adapter
If your wireless headphones don’t connect through a USB dongle, you’ll have to take a few more steps, but the process is typically no more complicated than syncing a controller. Here are three ways you might get your headset working.
These are general directions that may not apply to all models of headsets. Refer to your device’s documentation for specific instructions.
- In some cases, the headset comes with a base station that connects to the console and relays the wireless information. Attach the base station to the USB and optical cable ports. Typically, your headset will automatically pair with the base station, but you’ll need to charge it completely before you use it.
- For other headsets, press the sync button on the left side or lower-right corner . Hold the power button on the headphones until it pairs with the console.
- Connect your headset to the Xbox One via the USB, and then turn on the peripheral. Once the Xbox recognizes the headset , you can unplug it.
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Connect Using Bluetooth Transmitter
There are no ports on the console itself hence you will have to do that via the controller to establish any connection between your Xbox One and your Bluetooth headphones. An Xbox One controller is equipped with a proprietary port with a 3.5 mm audio port. For the controllers with the audio port, an adapter is needed to connect with the controller using its 3.5 mm port and acting as a Bluetooth transmitter. Most of these adapters are third-party devices thus, they are not made for the Xbox One in particular.
Although, you can typically add Bluetooth capabilities to all audio equipment with these adapters. These transmitters will then allow you to connect your Xbox One controller with your headphones. But the transmitter can only help you hear, and you will not be able to speak using your mic, even if you have headphones with built-in mics. You can also use devices that are transmitters and receivers as well. They will cost an extra couple of bucks, but you will be able to use your mic and speak to teammates as well.
- Attach the Bluetooth Transmitter via the 3.5mm Aux port on the Xbox One controller.
- Turn on the transmitter.
- Turn your headphones on.
- Pair your transmitter with your headphones using the transmitters particular instructions because different transmitters work in different ways.
- Your Bluetooth headphones should now be connected to the Xbox One controller allowing you to listen while using your Xbox One.
How Do You Connect Bluetooth Headphones To Xbox One
To be able to make a link between the headphones and an Xbox, plug a 3.5-millimeter audio plug right into the gamepad. The connection is a hole, and you can find it beneath the controller, left under the directional pad:
For this reason, Microsoft continues to offer the Xbox One Headset Stereo Adapter. However, this variant works only for devices that were made after 2015. For everything else, you need an Xbox One Headset Stereo Adapter. You connect this with the USB input on the controller, which is located at the lower part of the controller. Now you need to connect a headset to the jack input of the adapter. It has the advantage that you can regulate the ratio of the volume of the game to the volume of the microphone, adjust the overall volume and issue the microphone.
The third-party adapters for stereo look a bit different, but they work the same way. This particular adapter comes with a 2.5-millimeter to 3.5-millimeter cable that gives you the opportunity to hook up your old Xbox 360 headset for party chat to your Xbox One.
Regardless of the type of the joypad that you own, you will be able to hook up the Stereo Headset Adapter to the joypad with putting it in the free slot on the joypad. With that being done, you can now hook up a 3.5-millimeter audio jack to the Stereo Headset Adapter as shown on the following image:
Note:
However, headsets that are not offered by Microsoft may not work or do not work as intended.
RCA cable
Headsets that cannot be used on Xbox One
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Is There Bluetooth On The Xbox One
When it comes to connecting Bluetooth headphones to the Xbox One which is, after your gamepad, the most important ally in your gaming world, we must emphasize that Xbox One, unfortunately, doesnt support Bluetooth and you cant connect a Bluetooth headset or headphones directly to your Xbox One.
Image Credit: Xboxdiy.com
Sadly, Microsoft decided that its not necessary and they developed a faster way of sound interacting with a player with a new wireless system.
Bluetooth is most likely turned out of this gaming console because its too slow for sound transmission, and they discovered a new, faster way to bring sound to gamers ears.
Use Iphone Headsets In Conjunction With The Xbox Controller
The Apple Earbuds, although a new technology, may still have audio issues with Xbox One. Follow these steps if you have Apple Earbuds.
You can connect headphones with the Xbox One console to ensure they work correctly.
You should now be able to use your Xbox One consoles headphones. If this is still not possible, you may need professional assistance. Microsoft tech support can help you get your headphones to work with the Xbox.
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