New Xbox Wireless Headset Adds Voice Isolation, Bluetooth 5.3, and Bigger Battery

Microsoft has just revealed a new version of its Xbox Wireless Headset that’s launching today in select markets. We previously reported that a refreshed version was coming soon, and this new Xbox Wireless Headset comes with various improvements that may justify the slightly higher $109.99 price.

The design of the new headset doesn’t change, and Microsoft also kept the convenient on-ear controls that make it easy to adjust both volume and game/chat balance. However, you’ll notice that the green circles around the cushions have disappeared for an all-black design.

This new Xbox Wireless Headset comes with built in support for Dolby Atmos for Headphones, with no need to purchase a license on the Microsoft Store separately. Microsoft also highlighted the addition of an improved microphone with enhanced auto-mute and voice isolation, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for PC and mobile devices, and “ultra-low latency wireless connectivity” thanks to a new Qualcomm S5 Gen 2 chip.

The headset still supports direct pairing with Xbox consoles via Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol, and that also works on Windows PCs with the Xbox Wireless Adapter. The headset supports a simultaneous Bluetooth connection to a PC or phone for listening to music or using voice chat apps, though the availability of Spotify and Discord on Xbox consoles probably no longer make this a killer feature.

Last but not least, Microsoft says that its new Xbox Wireless Headset should offer offering up to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. Thirty minutes of charging should provide about 4 hours of battery life, and recharging to full battery life should take about 3 hours when headset is not in use.

The new Xbox Wireless headset is now available to purchase in select markets on xbox.com, and it’s priced at $109.99/€109.99/£99.99.