Page 3 of the Windows Bluetooth topic archive. Return to page one for the full topic guide.
For a causes-and-fixes approach, compare a second device, app, network or wired connection so you can isolate whether the problem follows the device, network, software or service. The goal is to confirm the next decision.
For this “what to check first” angle, compare a second device, app, network or wired connection so you can isolate whether the problem follows the device, network, software or service. The goal is to confirm the next.
If Windows shows the headphones as connected but audio still plays elsewhere, select them as the output device, check app-specific output settings and reconnect the Bluetooth profile before reinstalling anything.
Interference, distance, multipoint connections and low battery are common causes. Keep the phone close, disconnect unused paired devices and test the headphones with a second device to separate a headset issue from a phone.