Fix: Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue

Fix: Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue: When trying to connect Bluetooth headphones or speakers to a Windows computer, you might run into the problem of a “Voice/Music only” Bluetooth device connection. Instead of the expected full stereo audio connection, the device will often show a connection status of “voice only” or “music only.” Even though Bluetooth speakers and headphones are meant to make listening easy, this problem could make the sound quality and usefulness of these devices worse.

This problem could have a big effect on how users hear things in general. If a Bluetooth device is connected as “voice only,” it doesn’t use all of its audio features. Because of this, the sound quality of music, movies, and other multimedia often gets worse. If the device is connected as “music only,” it may not be as flexible because it may be hard to use the microphone for calls or voice commands.

It is possible to look into several possible ways to solve this problem. Both the Bluetooth device and the Windows PC could use firmware and driver updates, which should be looked for and put in place. Most of the time, problems with compatibility that lead to this issue can be fixed. A balanced connection can also be made by checking the computer’s Bluetooth audio profile settings to make sure they are set up correctly for both playing music and using the microphone. Here are the ways to Fix Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue.

What is the Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue on Windows

“Voice/Music Only” usually means that your Bluetooth device is connected to your computer, but it is set to a limited audio profile that only lets you play back voice and music. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that lets you connect your phone to other devices, like speakers or headsets. It’s one of the easiest ways to make and receive calls, but if the connection doesn’t work right, it can be annoying. When you connect your Bluetooth headset, but it only connects to either voice or music and not both, this is a strange situation. If this sounds like something you’ve heard before, keep reading.

Causes of the Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue on Windows

1. Bluetooth Profile Compatibility: Some Bluetooth devices may not fully support the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for high-quality audio streaming. This can limit the functionality to “Voice/Music Only.”
2. Outdated Drivers: Outdated or incompatible Bluetooth drivers can lead to limited functionality with your Bluetooth device. Ensure your Bluetooth drivers are up to date.
3. Bluetooth Stack Issues: Windows uses different Bluetooth stacks, and issues with the Bluetooth stack can affect the functionality of your device.
4. Device Firmware: Outdated firmware on your Bluetooth device can lead to compatibility issues with Windows and limit its capabilities.
5. Interference: Bluetooth signals can be affected by interference from other electronic devices, Wi-Fi routers, or even physical obstructions. This interference can result in degraded audio quality.
6. Low Bluetooth Signal Strength: A weak Bluetooth signal can lead to a “Voice/Music Only” issue. Ensure your Bluetooth device is within the recommended range.

Fix: Bluetooth Device Showing “Voice/Music Only” issue

Enable Bluetooth Services in Device Properties

1. To open Run, press Win + R.
2. Type control Printer and then click OK to open the Bluetooth & devices tab in the Settings app.
3. Click on Devices next.
4. Scroll down and click on More printers and devices. This should open the Control Panel’s Devices and Printers section.
5. To open Devices and Printers, you can also copy and paste the following into the Run box: shell:::{A8A91A66-3A7D-4424-8D24-04E180695C7A}
6. Next, right-click on your Bluetooth headset or speaker and choose Properties.
7. Open the Properties window and click on the Services tab.
8. Check all the boxes under “Bluetooth services.” Usually, you can do one of the following:
   • Audio Sink
   • Hands-Free Telephony
   • Remote Control Device That Can Be Controlled From A Distance
9. To save the changes, click Apply and OK.

Update the Bluetooth Driver Manually From the Manufacturer’s Website

1. To open Run, press Win + R.
2. To open Device Manager, type devmgt.msc and click OK.
3. Open up the Bluetooth section in Device Manager. Identify your Bluetooth device manufacturer (e.g., Intel (R) Wireless Bluetooth (R)).
4. To open the properties for the Bluetooth device, double-click on it.
5. Open the Driver tab next. Note down the version of Driver for future reference.
6. Visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel Wireless Bluetooth for Windows). Check for the latest driver version available.
7. Compare it with the version on your computer. If a newer version is available, download it and run the installer to set up the software.
8. During installation, your Bluetooth headphones, keyboard, and mouse may briefly stop working. Allow a few minutes for new settings to take effect, and consider restarting if needed to finish the update installation.

Check and Enable the Windows Bluetooth Services

1. To open Run, press Win + R.
2. To open the Services snap-in, type services.msc and click OK.
3. Find the following services in the Services snap-in and ensure their status is “Running.”
   • Service for Bluetooth Audio Gateway
   • Service for Bluetooth Support
   • Service for Helping Bluetooth Users
4. If not, right-click on Bluetooth Audio Gateway Service and choose Restart.
5. Check the other two services; if they aren’t running, start them up one by one.
6. Close the Services snap-in and check for any changes.

Run the Windows Bluetooth Troubleshooter

1. To open Settings, press Win + I.
2. Scroll down on the System tab and click on Troubleshooter.
3. Choose “Other troubleshooters” from the list.
4. If you want to use Bluetooth, click Run.
5. The troubleshooter will check the system for problems and suggest fixes on its own if any are found. Follow the instructions on the screen to make the fixes.
6. On the newer version of Windows 11, this will open the Get Help app and ask for your permission to run the troubleshooter. Click “Yes,” and then do what it says on the screen. If you choose No, you can skip some steps, such as checking for Windows updates.

Conclusion

Sometimes a Bluetooth speaker or headphones are only connected for voice or music. Most of the time, Bluetooth headphones and speakers are used to listen to music. Some users say that they can only hear the sound on voice calls and nothing else. Users noticed that when they opened Windows Settings, their Bluetooth device showed the “Connected” voice message.

Questions and Answers