With wireless headphones, the signal is transmitted by radio waves, which obviates the need for a wired connection to the phone. This article describes in detail how wireless headphones work, as well as provides the list of available features.
How do wireless headphones work
Wireless headphones are equipped with a Bluetooth wireless connection module which, once paired with the main device, provides signal transmission in both directions. The primary device usually is a cell phone, smartphone, tablet, computer, laptop, or TV.
Once the devices are paired, the sound from the primary device is compressed and transmitted through the established communication channel to the wireless headphones. The headphones process the signal and then broadcast the sound through the speakers. If the wireless headphones are equipped with a microphone, then the transmission of the signal is performed in reverse order.
Wireless headphones are designed for simultaneous signal reception and sending. In receive mode, the headphones stream sound – notifications, music, or the caller’s voice during a call. In transmit mode, the headphones transfer the sound received through the microphone and commands to control the player. Wireless headphones usually have control buttons that allow you to switch audio tracks, pause and stop, switch and rewind the tracks, and, on some models, change the equalizer presets.
Wireless headphones require power to operate, so all models are equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery. To save the battery power, wireless headphones switch to standby mode after a certain amount of idle time. As soon as a media file starts on your phone or an incoming call comes in, your mobile device sends a signal to search for and reconnect to the wireless headphones.
Wireless adapters for headphones
Wireless adapters (receivers) are also available on the market. They are a wireless headphone receiver in a housing, but without headphones itself. The headphones themselves are connected with a 3.5mm TRS jack. If using wired headphones with decent sound quality, the receiver will allow you to save some money due to the plug-in headphones. And having a 3.5mm jack will make it easy to swap out defective headphones or for a model with better sound.
Wireless headphones functions
Wireless headphones perform two functions:
- Providing communication. Talking over the cellular network or within messengers.
- Playing multimedia files. Listening to music, sound from videos or audiobooks and podcasts with control.
These days, most models that appear on the market come with two separate earbuds (TWS – truly Wireless Stereo technology). Each earpiece works individually and comes in a case with an extra battery for recharging when both headsets are not in use. Manufacturers often implement a split function for user convenience. One earbud removed from the case works as a headset for cellular communication, and both earbuds work as a stereo headset for listening to music.
What are the disadvantages of Bluetooth headset?
All wireless headphones have the following disadvantages:
- Limited runtime.
- Heavy weight.
- Frequent interference.
- Difficulties with connection.
- Not high sound quality.
- Requires battery replacement.
- High price.
Limited battery life
All wireless headphones have a built-in battery of different capacity. Therefore, each model of wireless headphones provides a different battery life. On average, wireless headphones consume 10-12 mAh of power. Therefore, compact wireless headphones and TWS headphones with a 40-60 mAh battery will provide up to 4-6 hours of use. Full-size headphones with a 450-690 mAh battery will last up to 50 hours.
Heavy Weight
Wireless headphones weigh several times more than wired headphones because of the built-in battery. Some full-size headphones weigh 370 grams, such as the Logitech G Pro X Wireless or the Corsair HS80 RGB Wireless. In comparison, the HyperX Cloud Stinger wired full-size headphones weigh 275 grams. Therefore, some users may get tired faster or feel uncomfortable wearing large wireless headphones.
Frequent interference
Wireless headphones are susceptible to interference. Therefore, sometimes the sound may be interrupted and lost.
Difficulties with connection
To use wireless headphones, you must connect via Bluetooth every time. Sometimes the headphones do not connect the first time. Or the headphones connect, but do not work. In rare cases, it may take 15-20 minutes to reconnect the headphones.
Poor sound quality
The sound quality of wireless headphones is increasing every year. That said, wireless headphones are still inferior in sound quality to wired headphones. Because they use compression in the transmission of sound. Therefore, for the best sound, you need support for current Bluetooth codecs. The best Bluetooth codecs are AptX HD, AptX, and LDAC.
Requires battery replacement
All wireless headphones require battery replacement after an average of 2-3 years of use. Some headphones have a good battery life of up to five years. That said, there is no suitable battery available for most headphones on the market. Also, the compact design of most headphones does not allow for battery replacement at home. Therefore, the life of most wireless headphones is limited to battery life. Whereas wired headphones can run steadily for 5-10 years.
High price
The price of some wireless headphones has been compared to wired headphones. At the same time, wired headphones are cheaper than wireless headphones in general.
The modern cornerstone of wireless technology is Bluetooth. So, let’s start with it. This wireless tech connects devices within a short range by way of radio waves without the help of any cables or wires. The technology is used to send and receive information between Bluetooth-enabled devices like laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc. Hence, it requires a pairing handshake so that such gadgets are synced with each other. In Bluetooth headphones, they pair directly to your phone which provides you a wire-free experience. Depending on models, Bluetooth headsets have a range of up to 32 feet.
Source: https://cellularnews.com/mobile-accessories/how-do-wireless-headphones-work
Frequently Asked Questions
How to charge wireless headphones?
The device is charged using a MicroUSB connector (sometimes Type C or other). Some devices can be charged using wireless charging technology. TWS headphones are charged in a specialized case by the built-in battery, which in turn is charged by connecting to the power outlet.
How to connect wireless headphones to my iPhone?
Turn on Bluetooth. When connecting for the first time, hold down the connection button for 3-4 seconds to pair, then connect to the headphones from the list of devices found. The next time you do not need to perform pairing, just turn on the headphones and Bluetooth, the connection will be established automatically.
How to connect two wireless headphones to my device?
Perform pairing and activate each headset in turn, but not all smartphones support this function. For TWS headphones, it is enough to remove both headphones from the case
How do wireless headphones work with phones?
Wireless headphones connect and communicate using Bluetooth protocol. The phone transmits audio data to the headphones, and the headphones send commands for remote control. The headphones go into standby mode when idle for a long period of time. The phone and the headphones stay connected and periodically exchange data packets. The connection is resumed for data exchange.
Can you answer calls with wireless headphones?
All wireless headphones include a button to answer and end calls. So you don’t have to press anything on the phone screen to answer a call. You can also answer a call with your connected smart watch or fitness bracelet.
Do wireless headphones play music?
Wireless headphones can play music and the caller’s voice when you make a phone call. Most wireless headphones are designed primarily to play music and audio files.
How do you answer a call with Bluetooth headphones?
All Bluetooth headphones include a button to answer and end calls. It can be an individual button or combined with another button, such as the volume up button. Therefore, when you make a call you must press the corresponding button. If the button is combined, then you need to determine the function of each button yourself or see the function of the buttons in the manual of the headphones.
What is the point of wireless headphones?
Wireless headphones provide comfort and convenience when listening to music. Because there is no wire, restricting your freedom of movement and interfering with your phone. With wireless headphones you can talk on your cell phone or listen to music from a distance, within range of the Bluetooth connection. Wireless headphones also allow you to switch tracks and change the volume of the music thanks to the controls built into the headphones.
How far can wireless headphones reach?
The range is limited by the range of the Bluetooth connection. Usually the effective range is 7-15 meters. Beyond this, the signal becomes unstable and intermittent.
Are wireless headphones worth?
Buying wireless headphones is totally worth it. Wireless headphones give you freedom of movement and easy control over your music. And the sound quality of most wireless headphones is comparable to mid-priced headphones. So wireless headphones are a great choice for listening to music or audiobooks on the go.
How do you talk in headphones?
You connect your wireless headphones to your phone. When you receive a call, the sound defaults to the wireless headphones. Sometimes the headphones malfunction, and you have to manually activate the transfer of sound to the headphones after you answer the call. Usually the phone call application contains a button to quickly switch the sound source: internal microphone, external microphone, or wireless headphones.
Can Bluetooth go through walls?
The Bluetooth signal can go through 1-2 walls. However, each wall reduces the signal strength and the quality of the connection. If there are other Bluetooth devices in the room, then the connection quality will be reduced even more due to the surrounding interference.
How far can you be from your phone with Bluetooth?
Typically, the range of a Bluetooth signal indoors is up to 15 meters. An effective range is 5-7 meters. At a distance of more than 8 meters, the connection deteriorates, the sound in the headphones is interrupted and listening to music is not comfortable. In an open space without interference the effective range increases to 10-15 meters. And when transferring files between devices, the connection is maintained at a distance of up to 30 meters.
How much should I pay for wireless headphones?
Headphones with good sound quality cost at least 40-50 USD. Wireless headphones with good sound quality can cost 100-150 USD. High quality brand wireless headphones cost 300-450 USD and up.
How long does a wireless headphone last?
Most wireless headphones have a lifespan of 2-3 years. With careful use, you can extend that to 5 years. Then you need to replace the battery. With most wireless headphones, replacing the battery is very difficult or impractical.
What should I look for when buying wireless Bluetooth headphones?
When choosing wireless headphones, you need to consider the type of connection and the design of the headphones, as well as the sound characteristics. You should also pay attention to operating time and extra features. If you clearly define the purpose of the headphones, the desired functions and the price range of headphones, then the choice is reduced to a few models.
Does Bluetooth use cellular data?
Bluetooth does not use cellular data. If Bluetooth is used to give out internet as an access point, then mobile data is used for internet browsing.
Which is better wired or Bluetooth headphones?
The sound quality is better with wired headphones so far. Also wired headphones are easier to use, cheaper and last longer. At the same time wireless headphones are actively developing and becoming better every year. The development of new standards, Bluetooth codecs and versions of Bluetooth help improve sound quality. The cost of wireless headphones is gradually decreasing. In addition, many headphones are available with a combination of cable and Bluetooth connection.
Will Bluetooth ever sound as good as wired?
In a few years, Bluetooth headphones may sound as good as wired headphones. You can already find wireless headphones with good sound quality on the market. It will take a few more years to develop an effective Bluetooth protocol and Bluetooth codec. It will then take a few more years for wireless headphones with good sound quality to become mainstream and affordable.
Conclusion
This article describes in detail how wireless headphones for mobile phones work. Thanks to the Bluetooth connection, such headphones do not need a wired connection, which provides the user with a comfortable and convenient use of the mobile device. Wireless adapters allow you to save on the headphone part and use your existing wired headphones.
If you still have questions about this topic, leave messages in the comments below the article.
