How to connect Samsung Galaxy buds to Xbox One

If you’re finding gaming headsets too bulky, a pair of Bluetooth-enabled buds could be a much more comfortable alternative.

“But the Xbox One doesn’t support Bluetooth connectivity,” we hear you cry. Well, don’t let a little thing like that put you off.

First up, you need to decide which pair of in-ear wireless earphones suit you best. And no doubt one of the contenders vying for your consideration will be the Samsung Galaxy Buds, which offer big sound wrapped up in a teeny package. And, thanks to the clever built-in microphones, you’ll have no problem coordinating with your teammates on the multiplayer battlefield.

You have two options. There are the standard Galaxy Buds, which – at £139 – come in 20 quid cheaper than the standard Apple AirPods. And then there are the upgraded Galaxy Buds+, which will set you back £159 and offer enhanced sound and longer battery life.  

READ MORE: Samsung cancels Galaxy Note 21 due to global chip shortages

Read on to find out everything you need to know to connect your Samsung Galaxy Buds to the Xbox One…

Making your Xbox One Bluetooth-compatible

The Xbox One console doesn’t support Bluetooth connections itself, so the process of connecting Bluetooth accessories such as Samsung Galaxy Buds isn’t as easy as you might think. That said, with the correct equipment, the process is still reasonably simple.

As laid out in Mobile Fun’s YouTube video, a Bluetooth adapter can be used to wirelessly transmit audio from the Xbox One controller to Bluetooth headphones.

You can get Bluetooth transmitters from Amazon from around £24.99 / $29.99 / €29.99, although there are some cheaper versions available.

Once the adapter is powered on, it can be plugged into the Xbox One controller’s headset port (on the bottom side of the controller) using the right auxiliary dock.

READ MORE: How to connect Bluetooth headphones to Xbox One

Pairing Galaxy Buds with your Xbox One

The process to pair the Galaxy Buds is quick and easy once you’ve bought that wireless transmitter for your Xbox One.

To place your Galaxy Buds into pairing mode, simply insert the earbuds into the charging case and close the case. According to Samsung’s support page, “If the battery indicator light doesn’t flash, you’ll need to charge the earbuds for at least 10 minutes before they’ll pair.”

Next, open the Galaxy Buds charging case and the earbuds will automatically enter Bluetooth pairing mode.

Press the multi-function button on your Bluetooth adapter to put that into pairing mode, too. The two devices should connect and you’ll be able to receive audio from the console wirelessly. If it doesn’t work, check that your earphones haven’t automatically paired with another device.

READ MORE: How to connect Apple AirPods to Xbox One