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# MICROSOFT TEAMS WORKS ON IMPROVING SPATIAL AUDIO FOR USERS
Microsoft Teams is continuously developing new features to enhance the user experience during meetings. One such feature is Teams Spatial Audio, which aims to align the audio location of each participant with their video representation. This innovation makes it easier for users to track who is speaking and understand multiple speakers simultaneously, reducing meeting fatigue and cognitive load [^1^].
However, Microsoft has encountered a limitation with spatial audio and Bluetooth earbuds or headphones. Currently, stereo-capable devices like wired headsets or stereo-capable laptops are needed to utilize this feature effectively. The use of Bluetooth devices is not supported at present due to protocol restrictions. Microsoft plans to support the next generation of LE Audio with stereo-enabled Bluetooth devices [^1^].
Introduced in its early stages, LE Audio requires support from both the source device and the audio accessory. The good news is that select earbuds from Samsung, Sony, OnePlus, EarFun, and other manufacturers have been updated to be compatible with this technology. Furthermore, Windows 11 gained support for Bluetooth LE in May, which suggests that Teams’ spatial audio may soon work wirelessly with the aforementioned earbuds [^2^].
Despite these advancements, it is unlikely that Microsoft’s own Bluetooth gadgets will support LE Audio in the near future. This applies to products such as the Surface Earbuds, which did not receive a sequel, indicating disappointing sales. Even the Surface Headphones 2, which were well-received, have not seen a successor. In comparison, Apple has been offering spatial audio across its platforms for some time, reinforcing the importance of having a robust ecosystem. However, the introduction of LE Audio may help Microsoft gain momentum in this aspect [^3^].
In conclusion, Microsoft Teams is focused on improving the spatial audio experience for its users. Although Bluetooth devices currently face limitations, Microsoft plans to support next-generation LE Audio, bringing wireless spatial audio to a wider range of devices. Furthermore, select earbuds from various manufacturers have already been updated to be compatible with this technology. As we enter the fall season, it will be interesting to see the progress made with LE Audio and its impact on the user experience in Microsoft Teams meetings.
**Sources:**
[^1^]: Microsoft’s Hong Sodoma, cited in Microsoft Teams Blog, [source link]
[^2^]: “Windows 11 gained support for Bluetooth LE,” The Verge, [source link]
[^3^]: The Verge, [source link]
