Wireless headphones have become an essential part of every traveler’s packing list, providing convenience and efficiency by eliminating tangled cords and audio adapters. However, until recently, travelers faced the challenge of connecting their wireless headphones to seatback entertainment systems on airplanes.
Good news arrived when United Airlines announced that more than 100 of their planes now support wireless headphone pairing with in-flight entertainment systems, with plans to expand this feature to over 800 jets by 2032. Such a feature caters to the increasing demand for seamless Bluetooth connectivity among travelers, enabling them to fully enjoy the company’s new in-flight setup, compatible even with popular headphones like Apple’s AirPods Pro.
Connecting your headphones to United Airlines TVs
United Airlines has updated their in-flight entertainment systems on many of their mainline domestic jets, now offering Bluetooth connectivity for passengers to connect their wireless headphones, including AirPods and over-ear headphones.
This new feature is available on all Boeing 737 MAX 8s, some Boeing 737 MAX 9s, some Boeing 737-737-800s, some 737-900s, some Airbus A319s, and some Airbus A320s. The process of pairing your headphones with the seatback entertainment screens is now more streamlined than ever.
To connect your headphones to the onboard TVs, simply look for the Bluetooth logo on the bottom right of the home screen. Click on it to access the Bluetooth audio panel and turn the switch to “on.” Then, start the pairing mode on your headphones and wait for them to appear on the screen. Once they show up, tap on your device to complete the connection.
With your headphones connected via Bluetooth, you are free to enjoy the available in-flight entertainment, including movies, TV shows, and relaxing audio options without the need for a Bluetooth adapter or traditional wired headphones. United’s updated seatback entertainment systems also provide USB-C ports for passengers who prefer to use wired headphones or need to charge their devices during the flight.
The integration of Bluetooth connectivity and high-quality 3D spatial audio in United Airline’s in-flight entertainment systems allows passengers to experience better sound quality while enjoying movies and TV shows during their flight. This convenient feature enhances the overall traveling experience for passengers flying on United Airlines.
United Airlines ‘Next’ Interior Excels in Comfort and Technology
United’s latest aircraft, part of the United Next initiative, showcases a remarkable cabin design that enhances the customer experience. These newly designed cabins can be found in new and retrofitted mainline narrow-body jets, featuring an upgraded interior with high-definition seatback screens.
The Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft boasts 20 first-class recliners with approximately 37 inches of pitch, more spacious tray tables, and added storage. The economy cabin offers a 3-3 seating configuration, consisting of 48 extra-legroom Economy Plus seats and 111 standard economy seats with approximately 33 and 30 inches of pitch, respectively.
Furthermore, the cabins are now equipped with larger overhead bins that allow side-loading of rollaboard bags, potentially eliminating the need for gate-checking luggage. This improvement is expected to streamline the boarding process and reduce traveler stress.
Passengers can also expect several tech upgrades, such as universal power outlets and USB charging ports at each seat. United Next aims to improve onboard connectivity by upgrading Wi-Fi systems in the Boeing 737 MAX fleet. Internet access will be provided by Viasat, a leading satellite internet provider in the commercial aviation industry.
By focusing on customer comfort and advanced technology, United’s ‘Next’ interior offers a superior travel experience for passengers onboard new and retrofitted mainline narrow-body jets.
Seamless Entertainment Experience
United Airlines has been making waves in the aviation industry by upgrading its planes with cutting-edge Bluetooth connectivity, elevating the in-flight experience for travelers. This innovative feature allows passengers to wirelessly connect their headphones to the seatback entertainment systems and enjoy a more convenient and immersive experience.
United Airlines isn’t the only airline embracing this modern technology, as Delta has already introduced a few Bluetooth-enabled aircraft, and American Airlines has plans to add Bluetooth connectivity to their upcoming new aircraft. There’s even speculation that JetBlue might join the trend in the near future.
Nonetheless, United Airlines stands out as the current leader in the U.S. for offering the highest number of Bluetooth-enabled planes. The airline’s ambition doesn’t stop there, as it aims to expand its fleet with an impressive 800 Bluetooth-compatible planes by 2032. This forward-thinking approach promises to revolutionize the way passengers experience in-flight entertainment while making their journeys more enjoyable.
