Bluetooth audio improves with AAC support in the next major Windows 10 update

Microsoft’s next major Windows 10 update later this year will include some significant audio improvements. The OS will eventually get support for Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) over Bluetooth, giving Windows users even more options for Bluetooth headphones and speakers. Windows Insider Can Test the changes now.

Windows has long only supported SBC and AptX over Bluetooth, but AAC support also unlocks the ability for better audio quality on Windows via iTunes or Apple Music. Apple was previously hiring engineers to create “the next generation of media apps for Windows”, and AAC support would be a tangible improvement for streaming via any potential Apple Music app or browser.

Microsoft is also improving how you select Bluetooth input in Windows 10, so there are no more than one device. Windows has several Bluetooth profiles for headphones and speakers, which confuses some apps that many devices have. Windows will soon use only a single audio endpoint that can automatically switch to the correct Bluetooth profile depending on whether you are listening to music or taking calls.

Picture: Microsoft

They welcome changes to Windows for audio management, but still more Microsoft can do here. EarTrumpet is a great third-party app that can change the system tray sound icon and lets you better control multiple outputs, headsets, or digital-to-analog converters from Windows.

Either way, the next major Windows 10 update is taking shape to be significant. Yesterday, Microsoft reported that the Windows 10 problem would eventually be fixed where the apps reorganize from standby on multiple monitors. This Windows 10 update will include the Xbox Auto HDR feature for PC games, new File Explorer icons, and even the Linux GUI app for developers.