How Does Bluetooth Transmit Audio?

Bluetooth transmits audio by using a combination of digital encoding and radio waves.

Encoding Audio

Digital Conversion: Audio signals are first converted from analog to digital using a process called analog-to-digital conversion (ADC).
Compression: The digital audio data is then compressed to reduce file size and bandwidth usage. Popular compression codecs for Bluetooth audio include SBC (Subband Coding), AAC (Advanced Audio Coding), and aptX.
Packetization: The compressed audio data is divided into small packets, each containing a portion of the audio signal. These packets are then transmitted individually over the Bluetooth radio waves.

Frequency Hopping: Bluetooth uses a technique called frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) to transmit the audio packets. This means that the signal constantly jumps between different frequencies, making it more resistant to interference.
Synchronization: Both the transmitting and receiving devices need to be synchronized to ensure the packets arrive in the correct order. This is achieved through a process called Bluetooth pairing.
Decoding and Playback: The receiving device receives the packets, decodes them, and then reconstructs the original audio signal for playback.

Wireless: Bluetooth allows for wireless audio transmission, eliminating the need for physical cables.
Portability: The small size and low power consumption of Bluetooth devices make them ideal for portable applications.
Wide Compatibility: Bluetooth is a widely adopted standard, making it compatible with a wide range of devices.