AirPods don't connect directly to Xbox Series S, but you have workarounds
Xbox Series S does not support Bluetooth audio devices like AirPods through its standard wireless connection. The console uses a proprietary wireless protocol for controllers and headsets, not the Bluetooth standard that AirPods use. This means you cannot pair AirPods to your Xbox the way you would to an iPhone or Mac.
However, you have three practical routes: use a USB adapter that converts Bluetooth to Xbox's wireless format, connect AirPods through your TV if it has Bluetooth, or route audio through your phone or computer while playing on Xbox. Each has different trade-offs in setup time, cost, and audio quality.
Key Takeaways
- Xbox Series S uses a proprietary wireless system, not Bluetooth, so AirPods will not pair directly to the console.
- A USB Bluetooth adapter plugged into the Xbox can make AirPods work, though you may experience slight audio delay and need to check compatibility before buying.
- If your TV has Bluetooth, you can pair AirPods to the TV instead and hear Xbox audio through them without any adapter.
- Connecting AirPods to your phone or computer and using that device to stream or mirror Xbox audio is slower but requires no additional hardware.
Using a USB Bluetooth adapter with your Xbox
A USB Bluetooth adapter is a small dongle that plugs into one of the Xbox Series S USB ports and translates Bluetooth signals into a format the console understands. The adapter creates a bridge between your AirPods and the Xbox. Popular options include the 8BitDo Wireless Adapter and the Mayflash Magic-NS, both of which are designed for gaming consoles.
Plug the adapter into the rear USB port on your Xbox Series S, put your AirPods in pairing mode, and pair them through the adapter's settings. Once paired, audio from games and apps will route through your AirPods. The main drawback is that some adapters introduce a slight delay between what you see on screen and what you hear — usually 100 to 200 milliseconds — which is noticeable in fast-paced games but less so in slower titles.
Before buying, check the adapter's compatibility list or reviews from Xbox Series S users specifically. Not all Bluetooth adapters work reliably with the console, and some may require firmware updates. Adapters typically cost between $20 and $40.
Connecting AirPods through your TV instead
If your television has built-in Bluetooth, you can pair your AirPods directly to the TV and hear all Xbox audio through them. This is often the simplest route if your TV supports it. Check your TV's settings menu — usually under Audio or Bluetooth — to see if the option exists.
The advantage is that you need no additional hardware and no adapter. The disadvantage is that you lose the ability to use your TV speakers at the same time, and some TVs have Bluetooth audio delay as well. You also cannot use the Xbox controller's built-in headset jack or chat features while connected to the TV's Bluetooth.
To check if your TV has Bluetooth, look in the settings menu or consult your TV's manual. Most newer smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony made in the last five years) include Bluetooth, but older models and budget sets often do not.
Streaming Xbox audio through your phone or computer
You can pair AirPods to your phone or computer, then use that device to receive Xbox audio through screen mirroring or streaming apps. On iPhone or Mac, use AirPlay to mirror your Xbox display, or use the Xbox app on Windows to stream the game to your computer and hear audio through your AirPods connected to that device.
This method works but introduces lag because the audio is being processed through an extra device. It is practical for turn-based games or apps where timing is not critical, but not for competitive multiplayer or action games. You also cannot use your TV screen at full quality while mirroring — the image is compressed for wireless transmission.
The benefit is that you need no new hardware beyond what you likely already own. The drawback is the delay and the need to keep a second device powered and nearby.
Why Xbox Series S doesn't support Bluetooth natively
Xbox uses a closed wireless system called Xbox Wireless, which is faster and more reliable for gaming than standard Bluetooth but only works with devices Microsoft has certified. This design choice prioritizes low latency and connection stability over compatibility with consumer audio devices.
PlayStation 5 has the same limitation — it also does not support standard Bluetooth headsets. Nintendo Switch does support Bluetooth audio, which is why AirPods work seamlessly with that console. Each manufacturer made different engineering decisions about which wireless standard to support.
Comparing your options side by side
| Method | Cost | Audio Delay | Setup Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB Bluetooth adapter | $20–$40 | 100–200ms (varies by adapter) | 10 minutes | Games where you own the hardware and want dedicated Xbox audio |
| TV Bluetooth connection | $0 (if TV has it) | Varies by TV, often 50–150ms | 5 minutes | Any game if your TV has Bluetooth built in |
| Phone or computer streaming | $0 | 200–500ms | 5 minutes | Turn-based games, apps, or casual play |
What to check before you buy an adapter
If you decide to go the USB adapter route, verify that the specific model has been tested with Xbox Series S. Read recent reviews from Xbox users, not just general gaming reviews. Some adapters work with Xbox One but not Series S due to firmware differences.
Check whether the adapter requires a separate power source or draws power from the USB port. Check the return policy in case the adapter introduces too much delay for your use. Some retailers like Amazon allow returns within 30 days if the product does not work as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AirPods work with Xbox Game Pass for Cloud Gaming?
Yes, if you are streaming Xbox games to your phone or computer through the Game Pass app, you can pair AirPods to that device and hear the audio through them. This is one of the cleanest ways to use AirPods with Xbox content, since the audio is already being processed on your phone or computer rather than the console.
Can I use AirPods Max with Xbox Series S?
AirPods Max have the same Bluetooth limitation as standard AirPods, so they also require a USB adapter or TV connection. They will not pair directly to the Xbox. If you use an adapter, the larger size and weight of AirPods Max may be more comfortable for long gaming sessions than standard AirPods.
What if my TV doesn't have Bluetooth?
If your TV has no Bluetooth, a USB adapter is your most straightforward option. Alternatively, you can connect a separate Bluetooth receiver to your TV's audio input (usually a 3.5mm jack or optical port), then pair your AirPods to that receiver. These standalone receivers cost $15 to $30.
Does the Xbox controller have a headphone jack?
The Xbox Series S controller does not have a built-in headphone jack. If you want to use a wired headset, you would need to connect it to your TV or use a USB adapter. Wireless headsets designed for Xbox (like the Xbox Wireless Headset) connect through Xbox Wireless, not Bluetooth.
Will using an adapter affect my Xbox controller connection?
No. Your Xbox controller uses a separate wireless channel from audio devices, so plugging in a Bluetooth adapter will not interfere with controller performance. The adapter and controller operate independently.