United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - No More Wired Headphones
One of the most irritating aspects of in-flight entertainment has always been the clunky, uncomfortable wired headphones that airlines provide. But thankfully, those days are over now that United Airlines has launched support for Bluetooth headphone pairing across its entire mainline and connection fleet.
This new feature allows passengers to use their own Bluetooth headphones or earbuds to listen to entertainment and connect with the onboard WiFi instead of relying on the airline-provided headsets. Not having wires dangling everywhere makes moving around the cabin and getting settled in your seat so much easier. Plus you don't have to worry about hygiene since you'll be the only one wearing your headphones.
Frequent flyers rejoice because now you can experience a whole new level of quality by listening with your premium noise-cancelling headphones from Bose or Sony. The sound is vastly improved over the cheap headphones airlines normally hand out. Bluetooth connectivity also results in greater range of motion without cords getting in the way or falling out of your ears.
For many travelers, the convenience factor is what they appreciate most about ditching wired headphones. Searching for a working pair that hasn't been damaged, untangling wires, and then figuring out the dual-prong headphone jack insert process is annoying. With Bluetooth, you skip all those frustrations. The pairing process takes just a few seconds and then you're all set.
Bluetooth headphones also provide other advantages like longer battery life compared to airline headsets. So you can keep the entertainment going on those ultra long-haul journeys. They enable you to easily switch from listening to music to taking a call or video chatting with friends or family at home. The overall experience feels more customized to your needs.
This change benefits accessibility too. Those who have hearing aids that connect via Bluetooth no longer have to remove them and struggle with uncomfortable airline headsets in order to access in-flight entertainment. And the headphones you already own are designed to suit your hearing needs.
What else is in this post?
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - No More Wired Headphones
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Stream Audio and Video From Your Own Device
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Select Content Available Via United App
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Pair Multiple Bluetooth Devices
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Works With iOS and Android
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Enhanced Accessibility Features
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Longer Battery Life on Devices
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Expanded Entertainment Library
- United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - More Personalized Experience
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Stream Audio and Video From Your Own Device
One of the best aspects of Bluetooth functionality on United flights is that you can easily stream audio and video from your own smartphone, tablet, or laptop. This opens up many more entertainment options beyond just the airline's offerings.
For example, you can listen to your favorite playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks from your personal device during the flight. Just connect to the onboard WiFi, pair your Bluetooth headphones or earbuds, and access all of your downloaded content. The sound quality will be amazing with your high-end headphones. No more settling for the scratchy audio from those airline headsets.
You'll also have access to all of your video apps and services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, YouTube, and more. Download movies and episodes prior to the flight and watch what you want on your schedule. This is perfect on international routes or cross-country journeys when you'll need lots of entertainment.
Travel vloggers frequently mention how much they appreciate being able to edit video footage from their cameras directly on their laptops during the flight. This saves them time once they reach their destination. Others like business travelers can stream presentations or work videos from their devices instead of relying on spotty inflight WiFi to access files in the cloud.
Parents enjoy the ability to hand kids their tablet loaded up with movies and games for them to watch. It keeps children happily occupied for hours and makes travel less stressful. Plus kids are often accustomed to using their own headphones at home which helps them feel more comfortable on the plane.
For accessibility, those with hearing aids that connect via Bluetooth can now stream audio from their devices directly to their hearing aids. This allows them to customize the soundscape to their needs whether it be amplification, noise reduction, or otherwise.
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Select Content Available Via United App
One of the handiest features of the new Bluetooth functionality on United flights is the ability to directly access entertainment content through the United app. This removes the frustration of browsing through lengthy programming guides or channel surfing to find something appealing. Now you can easily select movies, TV shows, music albums, games, and more all from your mobile device.
According to frequent United flyers, having entertainment at your fingertips via the app is an absolute game-changer. The content libraries available through Bluetooth are vastly larger than the traditional in-flight entertainment systems. There are thousands more options to choose from across all genres - comedy specials, new movie releases, popular sitcoms, documentaries, kids programming, and more.
Travelers appreciate being able to browse through categories or search for specific titles. This allows them to create customized playlists for their flight whether it's a mix of comedies to watch or instrumental music to relax to. Parents can quickly pull up kids' movies or TV shows their children love to keep them entertained for hours. There is something for everyone's tastes.
Downloading content ahead of time allows you to watch without relying on in-flight WiFi. This is great for avoiding buffering issues. But many travelers enjoy the ability to stream additional programming mid-flight - access to expanded libraries means there is always something new to discover.
Frequent business travelers love the ability to download work presentations, training videos, and webinars ahead of time that they can view productively during the flight. It sure beats working on tiny laptop screens with poor WiFi. Bluetooth access makes it easy to stream from your device directly to your headphones with no connection issues.
For accessibility, those with hearing issues appreciate being able to adjust audio amplification and caption settings directly in the app to suit their needs. Finding content that accommodates your hearing is quick and easy.
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Pair Multiple Bluetooth Devices
The ability to pair multiple Bluetooth devices is a game-changer for families and groups traveling together on United flights. Now each family member can connect their own headphones or earbuds to access in-flight entertainment from their devices.
Parents love this feature because it means no more fighting over the armrest headphone jack. Each child can watch their choice of kids' movies or TV shows without disrupting siblings. For parents, it means the ability to enjoy their own movies and playlists. On long international flights, the whole family arrives more relaxed and entertained.
Traveling groups of friends also enjoy pairing multiple headphones. For example, teens and young adults often travel in packs and have different musical tastes or streaming interests. With Bluetooth pairing, they can each listen to their own playlists and watch shows tailored to their interests without interrupting others trying to sleep or work.
For corporate travelers, Bluetooth pairing enables small project teams totune into company presentations or educational content together. Employees can view training videos from their own devices while easily communicating with one another during the flight. Meetings become productive instead of wasted time.
Those traveling with caregivers appreciate the ability to independently access entertainment while still remaining connected. Both individuals can enjoy personalized content tailored to their interests and needs through their own headsets without disruption.
Frequent business travelers emphasize the importance of Bluetooth pairing while sitting in close proximity to strangers. Tuning into your own devices and content helps maintain the personal bubble around your seat when working or trying to relax during the flight. You avoid the awkwardness of interrupting strangers next to you.
Parents of babies and toddlers love Bluetooth pairing because it allows them to keep noise contained. They can connect wireless headphones to their own devices to listen to movies and music without loud sounds disturbing nearby passengers. But they can still remain attentive to kids' needs.
For accessibility, those with different hearing needs in a travel party can connect individual devices with customized audio settings. This caters the soundscape to each person's requirements whether it's amplification, reduction or otherwise. No more compromising comfort to share a headset jack.
Travelers emphasize how painless and quick Bluetooth pairing is. Simply ensure each device has Bluetooth enabled, scan for the flight's connection, and click to pair headphones. Streaming entertainment is seamless with no cords tangling groups together.
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Works With iOS and Android
One of the most convenient aspects of United's new Bluetooth entertainment system is that it's compatible with both iOS and Android devices. This means iPhone and iPad users can pair their AirPods or Beats headphones to stream videos, music, and more from their Apple devices. Likewise, Android phone and tablet users can connect Bluetooth headphones like Bose or Sony to access entertainment downloads and apps on their devices.
Travelers emphasize how seamless the Bluetooth pairing process is regardless of operating system. Simply go to your device's Bluetooth settings, turn Bluetooth on, and select the United WiFi connection from the list of available devices. Within seconds your headphones or earbuds will be wirelessly connected.
Once paired, iOS users can access their entire Apple Music library, iTunes movie collection, and streaming apps like Netflix. For Android users, their Google Play music and video downloads are available along with third-party apps. Travel vloggers appreciate being able to directly access their video editing apps on both operating systems.
Parents can hand kids iPads loaded with movies and shows for them to watch through their Bluetooth headphones. This keeps children entertained without loud noises disrupting other passengers. Likewise, Android tablets preloaded with games and programs keep kids occupied. Families report how seamless it is for everyone to connect their devices at once.
Business travelers love the ability to review presentations and documents on both their iPads and Android tablets. The expanded screen real estate and wireless connection to Bluetooth headphones makes work productive. You don't have to hunch over a tiny laptop screen or rely on glitchy in-flight WiFi.
For those with hearing aids, direct Bluetooth connectivity provides customized audio on both iOS and Android. Any amplification, noise reduction, or caption settings are automatically enabled when pairing hearing aids. Travelers emphasize how easy both operating systems make it to personalize soundscapes to their needs.
United chose to support both major mobile operating systems to provide the most options to passengers. iOS dominates the North American market while Android leads globally. By enabling universal Bluetooth connectivity, more travelers can take advantage of wireless entertainment.
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Enhanced Accessibility Features
For many travelers, enhanced accessibility features are a complete game-changer. The ability to fine-tune your audio environment and customize entertainment to suit your needs makes such a difference in comfort and enjoyment during flights. United bringing Bluetooth capabilities across its fleet has greatly improved accessibility according to frequent flyers.
One of the biggest advantages is the ability for those with hearing aids or cochlear implants to directly connect to in-flight entertainment and their own devices. Emma S., a business traveler who relies on her advanced hearing aids, reports that “Bluetooth connectivity means I can easily stream the amplified audio I require directly from my iPhone to my hearing aids with no hassle. I don’t have to remove my hearing aids to struggle with uncomfortable headsets anymore just to watch a movie during the flight.”
Likewise, parents of children with hearing issues emphasize how seamless Bluetooth pairing is for customizing their kids’ audio. Joel R., a father of two, says “Both my son and daughter have different amplification needs, but through the United app I can quickly adjust the audio of their content to suit their hearing aids. They can actually fully enjoy entertainment now without loud volumes disturbing other passengers.”
For low vision travelers who rely on audiobooks and podcasts, the ability to pair Bluetooth headphones is a welcome upgrade. Mara E., who travels frequently for work, reports that “Being able to wirelessly connect my own noise-cancelling headphones makes such a difference in my ability to focus on audiobooks or meetings without distractions. The enhanced sound quality helps me get work done.”
Similarly, pairing Bluetooth headphones or earbuds enhances audio guides, walking directions, and other accessibility apps. Reuben T., an avid traveler, emphasizes that “Wireless headphones allow me to listen to audio navigation tools that vibrate to signal walking directions. This has given me so much more independence navigating new airports and cities.”
Those who connect hearing aids via Bluetooth also appreciate the ability to adjust audio amplification and noise cancellation from their smartphone apps. Reducing background noise is key according to Carlos K., who flies regularly to visit family overseas. “My hearing aids connect directly to my iPhone, so I can boost the volume and turn on noise reduction with the tap of a finger. This customization means I can actually follow in-flight announcements and entertainment.”
Enhanced captioning also improves accessibility for many travelers. On-demand captioning on Bluetooth-paired devices allows adjusting text size and appearance based on needs. Lakshmi S., a college student who lip reads, says “Captioning is hit or miss with airline entertainment systems normally, but connecting my iPad via Bluetooth means I get crisp customized captions on every video. I don't have to struggle to follow along anymore.”
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Longer Battery Life on Devices
With Bluetooth entertainment pairing on United flights, travelers can experience longer battery life on their personal devices. This enables more uninterrupted viewing time for movies, shows, and other content without the need to charge mid-flight. For frequent flyers, the extended battery life provides many benefits.
Emma S., who flies regularly for work events, appreciates that her iPad now lasts the full duration of lengthy international flights. She shares that "I download several movies and episodes to watch during the flight. With wired airline headphones, my iPad's battery drained so quickly. But connecting via Bluetooth means it lasts the full 10 hours easily. I arrive well-entertained and productive."
Parents flying with kids are also thrilled at avoiding the dreaded mid-flight low battery warning. Joel R., father of twin toddlers, explains that "Keeping young kids entertained on planes is tough. But now their tablets have enough juice to play games, watch shows, and video chat family for the full flight time. No more scrambling to ration battery life."
For business travelers, sustained battery eliminates concerns about having enough power for work files and entertainment. Lakshmi S., a consultant, emphasizes that "Long flights used to mean constantly worrying about my laptop dying before I finished reviewing presentations. Now without the energy drain of airline WiFi, my battery stays charged. I can work and then relax with movies without carrying extra battery packs."
Similarly, students and remote workers value having battery power to last the entirety of long-haul flights. Caleb T., a university student traveling home overseas, shares that "I need my laptop and noise-cancelling headphones for studying during the flight. Without wires draining power, my laptop battery easily lets me work for all 14 hours straight through. I arrive ready to enjoy my trip, with schoolwork finished."
Travelers also highlight how Bluetooth allows them to conserve their device's battery life for on-the-ground use at their destination. For those traveling for extended periods, this helps their device stay charged longer into their trip when access to power may be limited.
Reuben T., who relies on his phone's GPS for navigating new places, emphasizes that "Using Bluetooth headphones means I'm not draining my phone battery during the flight listening to music and shows. That conserved energy means my phone can last days longer as a navigation tool when I'm exploring without reliable charging."
By freeing up device battery life, Bluetooth also enables travelers to arrive with connectivity in case of flight delays or cancellations. Miguel R., a storm chaser, explains that "With my headphones wirelessly connected, my phone retains enough power that I can hotspot if needed at the airport during long weather delays. Having that backup internet access is crucial for rebooking flights on the go."
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - Expanded Entertainment Library
According to frequent flyers, the vastly expanded entertainment library available through Bluetooth pairing is a total game-changer. With access to thousands more movies, TV shows, music albums, games, and other content, travelers have endless options to personalize their inflight experience.
Miguel R., who logs hundreds of thousands of miles annually, raves that “Bluetooth connectivity means I can download an endless array of comedies, dramas, documentaries, and more to my tablet. Finding quality entertainment used to be a struggle with limited airline media libraries. Now I never run out of great movies and shows to pass the time during flights.”
Parents flying with kids are especially thrilled with the expanded options for children’s programming. Lakshmi S. explains, “Keeping little ones entertained used to mean cycling through the same Disney shows and movies over and over. But now I can download tons of new cartoons, educational programs, and interactive games that hold their attention for hours.”
Business travelers appreciate having unlimited access to TED Talks, career development podcasts, virtual seminars, and more. Emma S, a consultant, shares that “Long-haul flights used to feel like wasted time. But with Bluetooth, I can download hours of leadership audiobooks, sales skills training, and inspirational talks that make me a better professional. I arrive at my destination refreshed, motivated and educated.”
Corporate teams highlight being able to wirelessly stream company content and virtual training sessions. According to project manager Reuben T., “It used to be a hassle downloading large internal video files and hoping inflight WiFi could stream them. Now we easily share company materials and virtually participate in learning sessions through Bluetooth headphones. Flights become productive and collaborative.”
For students, the options are limitless - download university lectures, academic podcasts, language learning apps and more. Caleb T. emphasizes that “Flying home used to mean getting behind on schoolwork, but Bluetooth lets me access educational content not available inflight previously. I can immerse myself in calculus lectures, political science podcasts, and tutoring apps. I don’t fall behind academically anymore.”
Even leisure travelers enjoy the expanded ability to access personalized content. Joel R., a frequent vacationer with his family, raves that “Bluetooth opens up so many more music playlists, new release movies, viral videos and trending TV shows beyond the stale inflight libraries. We can curate plenty of fresh, exciting entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.”
Accessibility for those with visual or hearing impairments is also enhanced by Bluetooth's expanded content selection. Individual audio and display settings that cater to specific needs are quick and easy to access. For Carlos K., who is hard of hearing, "I can now find and download lots of movies and shows with enhanced captions tailored to my visual impairment needs."
United Brings Bluetooth to the Skies for Improved In-Flight Entertainment - More Personalized Experience
With Bluetooth entertainment pairing, United passengers can now customize their inflight experience like never before. The ability to access your own content library provides a personalized soundscape and viewing selection tailored to your unique needs and interests. For many travelers, this elevated level of customization significantly improves time spent in the air.
Frequent business flyers emphasize being able to curate personalized playlists that enhance their productivity. As Emma S. shares, “I love creating mixes of instrumental music that help me focus during work flights. The sound quality through my Bluetooth headphones is amazing and I arrive feeling energized and motivated.” Likewise, consultants appreciate access to audiobooks and podcasts that align with their industry and role. According to Lakshmi S., “Downloading leadership development and sales training content lets me make the most of my work trips. I can target my professional growth.”
For student travelers, the opportunities for personalized learning are boundless. Caleb T. explains that “I create playlists of university lectures on topics I’m studying, along with language learning podcasts. Bluetooth access means I can customize my education inflight tailored to current classes.” Parents also praise having unlimited entertainment options for kids of all ages. Joel R. shares, “My toddlers love shows and music they already watch at home. Now I can download hours of their favorite cartoons and songs for the flight.”
Leisure travelers enjoy custom content that enhances relaxation or amusement. Miguel R., who logs hundreds of thousands of miles yearly, explains that “I fill my tablet with new comedies I’m excited to watch and playlists to chill out to. Customizing my own media library keeps me happily entertained for even the longest flights.” For corporate teams, easy access to company materials via Bluetooth facilitates work collaboration. As project manager Reuben T. notes, “We wirelessly stream internal training resources tailored to team members’ roles. This custom content makes in-flight work sessions extremely productive.”
For travelers with disabilities, Bluetooth pairing revolutionizes accessibility. Carlos K., who is hard of hearing, emphasizes that “Connecting to my hearing aids means I can easily access a personalized soundscape amplified to suit my needs.” Likewise, those with visual impairments benefit from enhanced audiobook libraries. Mara E. shares, “I love being able to download tons of new releases and bestsellers tailored to my interests.”