For a visual step-by-step guide, kindly refer to the video above, or you can watch the video on YouTube by clicking here: How to Use Android Phone As Computer Speaker Step-By-Step, we show you how to do this.
Sitting at the computer, eager to start watching a movie or playing a game, you realise that something is wrong – there is dead silence around. This means either the PC speakers have broken down, or the laptop volume is so low that it resembles “silent” mode, which cannot be an accident. However, it is really frustrating to face such trouble, especially when you have bought a beautiful new monitor that has absolutely no speakers in it.
But before going for a purchase of additional audio equipment, why don’t you think about what device you already have right in front of you? Yes, you got it! You can use Android phone as computer Speaker. How to do this will be shown in my latest video, in which I use a useful app called Audio Relay.
Do you want to enjoy a wireless connection (Wi-Fi), or do you prefer the USB one? It does not matter. Both ways are possible.
Why Audio Relay?
Basically, it is one of the simplest methods, which will help you to establish a connection between your computer and phone which will allow you to use Android phone as computer speaker. Firstly, you download the application on your PC (Windows, Linux, or Mac) and get the application on your Android phone from Google Play.
If you want to use Android phone as computer speaker here are the steps to follow:
Method 1: The Wireless Way (Wi-Fi)
Very convenient when you have a desire to roam about or simply have a comfortable desk without any wires.
To start using this audio relay, you will first need to connect your phone and PC to the same Wi-Fi network.
Secondly, run the application on both devices.
In case your PC does not appear instantly, you may type in the IP address of your computer and tap Connect.
That’s it. Now your phone functions as a speaker.
Method 2: The Rock-Solid Connection (USB)
But if the Wi-Fi connection is being a little bit difficult, there’s always the second option for you, which will be using the USB way, and yes, this is how it’s done
First, grab a USB cable that fits and connect your Android phone to your PC. Make sure the cable is not loose, because the whole thing kinda depends on that… also sometimes you gotta wiggle it a bit, just to be safe. Then, open your phone’s settings and enable USB tethering.
Finally, simply press Audio Relay and obtain a new IP address.
Pro-Tips
Audio Quality: If the sound seems scratchy or crackling, return to the settings of the PC program and make sure that the sample rate (44100Hz, for example) is appropriate.
Privacy and permissions: In addition, check whether the application has been granted permission via your Windows Firewall. It actually happens to be the number one reason why people face problems when the phone cannot “see” the computer on the network.
Thoughts
From what I tested, it works great and seems very easy. You can regulate the volume using your PC or adjust the audio settings within the application itself. It’s just the thing that can really save you in an emergency or even if you want to convert your old smartphone to a PC speaker.
If you want to see the full procedure and what it looks like, check the full video below: How to Use Android Phone As Computer Speaker Step-By-Step
So you — have your speakers died on you at the worst possible moment? Leave a comment down below!
FAQ
Can I use this method if my PC doesn’t have a Wi-Fi card?
Sure, you can apply the USB tethering method demonstrated in the video. It is preferable because it creates a stable connection without any audio delays, in contrast to Wi-Fi.
Does this work for iPhone/iOS users?
This particular guide is designed specifically for Android devices. There are applications for iOS which work similarly; however, this guide is adjusted for the Android devices’ connection process.
Why is there a delay (latency) between my PC and the phone speaker?
The latency issue occurs mostly via Wi-Fi connection when the signal is weak, or when the 2.4GHz spectrum is crowded. In case you are gaming or watching movies, the USB method will be more secure to use.
Can I still use my phone for other things while it’s acting as a speaker?
You can use your phone in some other way as well, even when it serves as a speaker. Almost all apps that provide this kind of functionality work in the background mode without any restrictions. For optimal performance and to prevent the activation of your battery-saving function by accident, you should try to “lock” the app among your recent tasks.
Will this drain my phone’s battery quickly?
It depends; however, streaming high-quality audio via Wi-Fi would consume much more energy than in the ordinary case. If you use the USB method, though, the mobile phone will be charging from the PC; therefore, there are no worries concerning the battery issue anymore.
