Connecting multiple Bluetooth speakers to your iPhone will bring you one step closer to having a surround sound experience. One way is to try and connect more than one Bluetooth speaker to a single iPhone, which begs the question of whether this is even possible or not. So, is it?
You can connect two Bluetooth speakers to later-model iPhones or use an app that allows the speakers to piggyback off of each other. With that said, you won't be able to do it if you have a much older model.
This article guides you on connecting two Bluetooth speakers to your device and explores alternatives for non-Bluetooth 5-supported devices. Here’s what you need to know about connecting more than one Bluetooth speaker to your iPhone, but if that isn't enough, we have another article on the subject.
Key Takeaways
- Bluetooth 5 Compatibility: The latest iPhones with Bluetooth 5 (iPhones 11-15) easily connect to two speakers for improved audio.
- App Options for Non-Bluetooth 5 Devices: Apps like AmpMe, Bose Connect, and Ultimate Ears offer alternatives for older iPhones. AmpMe allows you to pair multiple Bluetooth speakers, while Bose Connect and Ultimate Ears support connecting two Bluetooth speakers.
- Samsung Dual Audio Feature: Samsung's Galaxy S8 and newer models feature Bluetooth Dual Audio for connecting two Bluetooth speakers easily.
When Can You Connect Multiple Bluetooth Speakers to an iPhone?
This includes S8 models (like the Samsung Galaxy) and iPhones that run iOS 11.4 and later versions of the operating system. However, if your mobile device only supports Bluetooth 4.2, you have a limited audio range of 10 to 30 meters from your wireless headphones.
You can also only sync one speaker with your mobile phone. Alternatively, there are other options if you don't have the type of mobile phone or Bluetooth speaker that you need to pull this off properly.
For example, it's very possible to connect an additional speaker with an application like Bose Connect, AmpMe, or Ultimate Ears.
All of these options will allow you to use multiple Bluetooth speakers simultaneously.
How to Connect Two Bluetooth Speakers to One iPhone
If you are using an Apple device that supports Bluetooth 5 (like an iPhone 11-15 or an iPad 15/16), your Apple device has an option for connecting two speakers. Follow these steps to successfully connect it to a Bluetooth speaker.
- Open the Settings on your iPhone.
- Navigate to Connections or Bluetooth settings.
- Activate Bluetooth on your iPhone.
- Turn on both Bluetooth speakers you want to connect and put them in pairing mode.
- On your iPhone, locate and select the Bluetooth speakers in the available devices list to pair them.
Successful pairing should be indicated by a confirmation message on the screen or an audible notification on both the iPhone and the Bluetooth speakers, indicating your audio setup is ready to use.
Connecting Two Bluetooth Speakers to Apple: Alternative Methods
As we already mentioned, if your mobile phone doesn’t boast the easy connectivity of Bluetooth 5, there are still ways you can add another speaker.
You will need to download an app and follow a few set-up steps. However, keep in mind that they're not all created equal, so the best option for you often depends on the type of iPhone you’re using.
AmpMe App
Since the AmpMe app (on iOS) isn’t exclusive to one speaker or phone brand, it’s the most versatile to use. How it works is a little different than other connect apps and you will need friends and family to participate in the installation with you. Even strangers can join the party if they’ve already downloaded the app.
How AmpMe works is simple. Once you’ve downloaded the app, the next step is to link it to your Google or Facebook account. If any of your contacts are on AmpMe, they can send requests to join your party.
It also applies to strangers who have the app’s location services activated. You can also use the service to join someone’s else online musical party by sending an invitation request.
While the app doesn’t allow you to connect another Bluetooth speaker to your iPhone, it does allow you to pair with multiple devices. Basically, any that are on the app.
You can create playlists and become the guest DJ where others request songs and give you access to theirs. Everyone can listen to the same music from their personal device.
How to Set Up AmpMe
It only takes 4 simple steps to start a party once you’ve installed the app.
- Tap on the Plus (+) sign.
- Select the music service you want to use, YouTube, Spotify, etc., and select the connect option.
- Access your music account.
- Create a playlist or choose a previously established.
Bose Connect and Ultimate Ears
There are limitations with both of these apps but you can connect two speakers to your iPhone if it’s the right manufacturer and model.
Bose Connect (on iOS) is only compatible with the company’s speakers and headphones, but you can connect two at once. The app’s Party Mode function streams audio to the two synced speakers.
Ultimate Ears comes with two apps to choose from, Boom (iOS) and MegaBoom. Either will allow you to stream audio to two speakers.
However, not all speakers or smartphones are compatible with the app. The Google Play and App Store list the compatible devices. You might want to double-check before you install the Ultimate Ears app.
Samsung Dual Audio Feature
You don’t need Bluetooth 5 to connect two speakers to your smartphone if it’s a Samsung Galaxy 8, S+, or a newer model. The phones come with Bluetooth Dual Audio which is a breeze to set up.
It’s also compatible with most Bluetooth headphones and speakers.
If you're unaware of how to set it up, follow the steps shown below:
- Access settings, select connections, and then Bluetooth.
- In newer models, you’ll tap on the Advanced tap. Earlier phones require you to tap on the 3 vertical dots located in the upper-right corner of the screen.
- Click on Dual Audio.
After completing these steps, you can now pair two headphones, speakers, or one of each to your phone and stream audio to both.
Keep in mind that if you try to add another speaker, the first one will be automatically replaced. Adding a third speaker won't work because you can only connect two speakers at a time.
HomePod Stereo Pair
To use this app, your iPhone must have the iOS 11.4 or higher operating system. You also need to purchase the HomePod speakers if you don’t already have a set.
To pair the speakers with the mobile phone, both must be in the same room. After that, you can place one in a different area and stream the same music to both.
- On the app, press the HomePod tab and then go to settings.
- Choose to create a stereo pair and select the second HomePod.
- Tap the two HomePod icons to match the left and right speakers.
- Select Back and then Done.
- Your HomePod speakers are now paired and synced with your iPhone.
Related Questions
How to Split Bluetooth Audio on the iPhone?
To split Bluetooth audio on your iPhone, ensure it runs on iOS 11.4 or later. Navigate to “Settings,” tap “Bluetooth,” find your device, and enable “Share Audio.” This feature allows you to share the audio with another connected device for a synchronized listening experience.
Can you Connect Multiple Bluetooth Devices To Android?
Android does support connecting multiple Bluetooth speakers simultaneously through a feature called “Bluetooth Dual Audio.” This feature allows you to connect two Bluetooth audio devices, such as speakers or headphones, to your Android device at the same time. However, the availability of this feature might vary depending on the Android device's manufacturer and the Android version it is running.
You can even connect one AUX and one Bluetooth device at the same time, which we have explained before.
