Explained: What is Bluetooth Multipoint and how is it useful – Times of India

Bluetooth Multipoint is a feature that is usually present in headphones and earbuds. This feature allows the audio accessories to connect with multiple devices, simultaneously. Bluetooth Multipoint allows users to switch between devices like a computer and phone without any hassle.
For example, with this feature, you can use a single headset to listen to your show on your work laptop, while staying aware of any work notifications that come through your phone. This is a technology that headphone manufacturers have largely neglected as only a few devices fully support this technology.
What is Bluetooth Multipoint?
The Bluetooth Multipoint feature was released along with Bluetooth version 4.0. This feature allows a Bluetooth audio device to maintain simultaneous connections with more than one source device like a smartphone and a laptop. Devices need to support both A2DP and HFP/HSP connections for this feature to allow audio streaming and talking, respectively.
There are some devices that support a phone and computer connection only, whereas other devices support two phone connections, simultaneously. It depends on the Bluetooth profile that the device supports. It was intended for professional use when it was first released. This feature allows users to be on one call without missing notifications from another device.
What makes Bluetooth Multipoint useful?
This feature can prove to be convenient for everyone, especially for their professional use. If you have two smartphones, you can connect your compatible headset to both your personal and professional devices. This will help users to stay aware of notifications and will also increase productivity.
Difference between simple Multipoint and advanced Multipoint
Simple and advanced Bluetooth multipoint works on the same principle, yet there are some differences between them. Simple Multipoint drops the current call from the primary source device once you answer an incoming call from the secondary source device. On the contrary, advanced multipoint puts a primary call on hold when a second incoming call is answered.
Advanced multipoint is usually available in professional Bluetooth headsets, but it is hard to find in the market. Users can even connect up to three devices, simultaneously with headsets that use advanced multipoint.
Drawbacks of Bluetooth Multipoint
The Bluetooth Multipoint feature doesn’t allow users to stream media from both devices at the same time. In most cases, this feature designates one device as a media player and the other strictly for pushing notifications through. It automatically prioritises a connection to the device receiving an incoming call over the one streaming YouTube videos.