Windows 11 24H2 aims to change the way you find Bluetooth devices around you. Currently, not all Bluetooth devices are displayed when you perform a quick search. You'll need to set Bluetooth settings to force Windows to look for devices you rarely encounter, but that will change with the next update.
Microsoft introduced a new feature in build 26052, where the Bluetooth option in the Action Center searches all devices. The "Show all devices" option will appear in the Action Center if you find a device that you rarely encounter. You can activate it, associate, and connect the device.
If for example you are not using Windows 11 24H2, you can also still use it by modifying settings, here's how:
- Press Ctrl + A to open the Action Center.
- Click on the arrow icon next to Bluetooth.
- Click on More Bluetooth settings.
- Now, click on the View more devices option.
- Click on the Bluetooth Devices Discovery and select the Advanced option.
- Reopen the Action Center and enable Bluetooth.
If so, the display will change as follows:
Support for rare devices isn't the only improvement in Windows 11 24H2. Microsoft strives to improve accessibility for users with hearing loss.
For those who don't know, the Windows 11 2023 Update adds support for Bluetooth Low Energy Audio (LE Audio), which allows you to use live hearing aids with your PC. Benefits include easier pairing, better audio quality for streaming and calls, and longer battery life for hearing aids.
With Windows 11 24H2, you can now control audio presets, adjust the volume level of your hearing aids, and monitor device details. However, hearing aids and Windows 11 PCs must support Bluetooth LE and LE Audio. Otherwise, the feature won't work.
What do you think? If interested, you can also set some of the tips above if you have trouble finding other devices via Bluetooth.