Google is Bringing Audio Switching to Android

Google revealed that it is bringing audio switching technology to Android to make it easier to switch audio devices between phones and tablets. It will also enable switching to non-Android devices using Bluetooth multipoint, and to connect up to two Bluetooth devices at a time.

“We are introducing audio switching technology that reduces frustration and gives you more control over your audio experience to help you switch between devices throughout the day,” Google’s Angela Hsiao writes. “Our audio switching technology builds on top of Fast Pair to use contextual information on what you’re listening to in order to switch the audio based on your actions.”

Hsiao uses an example to explain the value of this addition: if you’re watching a video on an Android tablet using headphones and you receive a phone call on your smartphone, your headphones will switch to the phone when you accept the call.

Basically, the system will prioritize sounds between phone calls, media, and all of the sounds your devices may make. Of course, everyone prioritizes sounds differently, so notifications will let you switch the audio back to the original device you were listening on with a single tap.

Google will begin rolling out audio switching between Android phones and tablets that support Bluetooth multipoint with the Pixel Buds Pro. It is also coming to select Sony and JBL headphones in the coming weeks. And it will expand to more platforms and devices over time.