
One of my favorite things about the Xbox 360 was the ability to easily play my own music in the background while playing a game, whether it was from a plugged in media device or streaming from my laptop. I understand that developers spend precious time selecting the right mood music, but sometimes you just want to listen to your own. Especially when playing a racing game. No one knows what music you like better than you.
When I purchased my Xbox One last October, I was astonished to find out that there was no method of easily playing your own music in the background while playing a game. This is a huge step backwards from the capabilities of the Xbox and Xbox 360. I figured that I was missing something, but after researching there was no clean cut way to do it on the One. The few methods I did find, such as using the YouTube or Groove Music app, involved snapping the app. Although it worked, snapping takes up a significant amount of screen space and takes away from the experience of the game being played.
After doing some brainstorming, I came up with my own method of playing custom music during a game without snapping an app. This method allows you to wirelessly play streaming music, or any on your device, from any smartphone or tablet.
You’ll Need the Following 3 Items:
- Speakers with a 3.5mm auxiliary input
- A music device (ex. tablet, smartphone) that can output a Bluetooth signal
- A Bluetooth audio receiver (here’s a $15 one from Mpow)
Instructions
- Turn on the Bluetooth audio receiver, then plug it into the auxiliary port on your speakers.
- Pair your device with the Bluetooth audio receiver.
- Select the music from your device using any streaming service or simply use music that is stored on your phone.
The best thing about this setup is that it’s wireless, so you don’t have to leave your couch or even change any screens on your Xbox One when you’re gaming.
Enjoy!