Bluetooth technology has become an integral part of modern computing, enabling seamless wireless communication between devices. With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has expanded its support for various Bluetooth versions and profiles, enhancing connectivity and functionality for users.
Windows 11, starting from version 22H2, supports Bluetooth Core Specification version 5.3. This advancement brings improvements in speed, range, and reliability over previous versions. It's important to note that Windows Server editions do not provide in-box support for Bluetooth wireless technology; support may be available through third-party drivers from independent hardware vendors (IHVs). (learn.microsoft.com)
Source: Microsoft Support Supported Bluetooth profiles - Microsoft Support
Windows 11, starting from version 22H2, supports Bluetooth Core Specification version 5.3. This advancement brings improvements in speed, range, and reliability over previous versions. It's important to note that Windows Server editions do not provide in-box support for Bluetooth wireless technology; support may be available through third-party drivers from independent hardware vendors (IHVs). (learn.microsoft.com)In-Box Support for Bluetooth Profiles
Windows 11 offers in-box support for a comprehensive range of Bluetooth profiles and protocols, facilitating diverse functionalities:Core Specification Profiles and Protocols
- Host Controller Interface (HCI)
- Attribute Protocol (ATT)
- Generic Access Profile (GAP)
- Generic Attribute Profile (GATT)
- Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol (L2CAP)
- Service Discovery Protocol (SDP)
- Security Manager Protocol (SMP)
GATT Profiles and Services
The Generic Attribute Profile (GATT) defines how two Bluetooth devices transfer data back and forth. Windows 11 supports several GATT profiles and services, including:- Device Information Service (DIS) v1.1
- Generic Media Control Service (GMCS) v1.0
- Generic Telephone Bearer Service (GTBS) v1.0
- HID over GATT Profile (HOGP) v1.0
- Scan Parameters Profile Client (ScPP) v2.1
Additional Bluetooth Profiles and Protocols
Windows 11 version 22H2 extends support to a variety of other Bluetooth profiles and protocols, enhancing audio, networking, and device control capabilities:- Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) v1.3.2
- Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) v1.6.2
- Hands-Free Profile (HFP) v1.7.2
- Human Interface Device (HID) v1.1.1
- Personal Area Network Profile (PAN) v1.0
- Serial Port Profile (SPP) v1.2
Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio Support
A notable addition in Windows 11 is support for Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio, introduced in version 22H2. LE Audio offers benefits such as improved battery life and enhanced voice call quality. To utilize LE Audio, both the Windows device and the connected audio device must support this feature. Users can check for LE Audio support by navigating to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices and ensuring the "Use LE Audio when available" option is enabled. (support.microsoft.com)Verifying Supported Bluetooth Profiles
To determine which Bluetooth profiles are supported by a specific version of Windows, users can visit the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) website:- Navigate to the Bluetooth SIG website.
- Select the "Find a Product" link.
- In the search box, enter the Windows version (e.g., "Windows 11") and press Enter.
- From the search results, select the specific Windows version to view detailed Bluetooth profile support information. (support.microsoft.com)
Conclusion
Windows 11's support for Bluetooth 5.3 and a wide array of profiles and protocols significantly enhances device connectivity and functionality. The inclusion of Bluetooth LE Audio further improves audio experiences and energy efficiency. Users are encouraged to verify their devices' compatibility and ensure that both their Windows system and peripheral devices support the desired Bluetooth features for optimal performance.Source: Microsoft Support Supported Bluetooth profiles - Microsoft Support