Troubleshooting Bluetooth Headsets

Is Gather switching your audio inputs every time you switch tabs? Or are you able to hear others, but they can't hear you? Are you experiencing drastic changes in audio quality when you mute and unmute? If you're using a Bluetooth headset, this article may provide some clarity.  

Bluetooth Profiles

Every Bluetooth accessory comes with a built-in profile, which is a package of software that tells the device how to "treat" the accessory. Some devices will automatically detect a Bluetooth accessory and apply an incorrect profile. 

If you find that you can only hear others but they can't hear you, the cause may be your Bluetooth profile. Bluetooth A2DP, a Bluetooth profile, does not support stereo audio and a microphone simultaneously.

Many Bluetooth headsets, widely produced before 2018, use Bluetooth A2DP. Some mobile devices will accommodate the limitations of A2DP by quickly and automatically switching between sending microphone input and receiving stereo audio input. Some devices (computers, tablets, etc.) do not support the automatic switching of inputs and outputs required by A2DP for a smooth experience. 

One solution would be to use a separate microphone if you wish to use Bluetooth headphones. 

Test Inputs

When you select your input (mic) in Gather, your computer will generate a list of what it views as available. Before you enter a Space, you can try different input and output combinations to find the right combination that works best for your setup.