Bluetooth broadcasting
The LC3 codec that has recently been spotted in the public beta of iOS 16, is just part of a group of audio features that are collectively known as Bluetooth LE Audio (LE for ‘low energy’).
However, these new features are being introduced gradually, and one of the most important features that will be supported by the LC3 codec is called Auracast Broadcast Audio. This then gives Bluetooth devices the ability to broadcast audio to an almost unlimited number of people and devices.
A gym could set up a ‘silent
TV’ that visitors can tune into via Bluetooth, without disturbing the people around them, for example, while airports and other public venues could beam important announcements straight to your headphones. Auracast is also designed to work with hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Auracast has only just been announced, though, so it could be a year or more before manufacturers are able to support this new feature and add it to their Bluetooth products and devices.