How do I connect a Bluetooth dongle to a TV?
Answer
Plug the Bluetooth dongle into a free USB port on the TV, switch the TV input or source to that USB device if required, then put your headphones or speaker into pairing mode and connect from the TV Bluetooth or audio settings. Many smart TVs already have built-in Bluetooth, so a dongle only helps if the TV supports USB Bluetooth adapters or external audio devices.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not buy or install unknown pairing apps from unexpected links that ask for payment or account passwords.
Follow these steps
Confirm the TV can use a dongle
Check the TV manual or support page for your model to see whether it supports a USB Bluetooth adapter. If the TV already has built-in Bluetooth, try pairing without the dongle first.
You should see: You know whether the TV supports USB Bluetooth dongles or already has Bluetooth built in.
Plug the dongle into a USB port
Insert the Bluetooth dongle firmly into a free USB port on the TV. Wait about 30 seconds for the TV to detect it, and try a different USB port if nothing appears.
You should see: The TV shows a new USB or Bluetooth device, or the dongle LED indicates it has power.
Open Bluetooth or audio settings
On the TV remote, open Settings and look under Sound, Audio Output, Bluetooth, or Connected Devices. Choose the option to add or pair a new device.
You should see: The TV starts scanning for nearby Bluetooth devices.
Put the audio device in pairing mode
Turn on the headphones or speaker and hold the pairing button until the pairing light flashes, then select that device on the TV list.
You should see: The TV shows Connected or Paired next to the device name.
Set the TV audio output
In Sound settings, set audio output to Bluetooth headphones, external speakers, or the newly connected device, then play a video to test sound.
You should see: Audio plays through the Bluetooth device instead of the TV speakers.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A free USB port on the TV, any on-screen prompt after plugging in the dongle, and a Bluetooth or audio output menu that lists nearby devices.
Before you change anything: Check the TV model and whether it already has built-in Bluetooth. Confirm the dongle is meant for TVs or media devices, not only computers. Have the headphone or speaker pairing instructions nearby. Unplug other unused USB devices first so the TV can detect the dongle.