LAS VEGAS, January 9, 2026 — Apple’s continued reluctance to embrace Auracast Bluetooth technology is slowing its widespread adoption, despite the potential to bring accessible audio to millions. iOS currently holds 58 percent of the North American mobile market and nearly 28 percent globally, meaning a simple firmware update from Apple could dramatically expand the reach of this promising feature.
A Workaround for Apple Holdouts
Table of Contents
A new device aims to bridge the Auracast gap, offering compatibility even without native Apple support.
But audio technology company Atitan believes it has a solution. The company is developing the splitR, a small, disc-shaped transceiver designed to attach to an iPhone’s MagSafe connector, effectively turning it into an Auracast device capable of both transmitting and receiving broadcasts. The accompanying connectR app, slated for release on both the Apple App Store and Google Play this summer, will allow users to discover nearby broadcasts, manage connected devices, and create custom Auracast channels for group listening sessions. The app will also integrate with popular streaming platforms, enabling seamless playback of songs and playlists.
Beyond Apple: Universal Compatibility
The splitR isn’t limited to Apple devices. While designed to connect magnetically to iPhones, it can also be linked to any non-Auracast product via USB-C or a 3.5mm cable, instantly adding Auracast capability. Atitan also revealed that a future iteration will wirelessly translate standard Bluetooth connections into Bluetooth LE Auracast transmissions.
The versatility of the splitR extends to various audio setups. It can connect to speakers to stream content from a phone or Auracast-enabled TV, or to a turntable to broadcast audio to headphones or speakers. Multiple splitR transceivers could even create a whole-home Auracast system. Notably, Atitan’s broadcasts are open-standard, meaning they’ll work with any Auracast-compatible headphones or speakers, unlike some manufacturers who restrict compatibility to their own ecosystems.
Accessibility at the Forefront
A demonstration at CES was promising. Beyond simply sharing music, Auracast holds significant potential for improving accessibility for individuals who need hearing assistance in public spaces like concerts, airports, churches, or lectures, as well as at home while watching television. The wider availability of Auracast – whether built-in or through adapters like the splitR – will make these accessibility features more mainstream.
Other Auracast transmitters currently available can be cumbersome to use, but Atitan is focused on creating a user-friendly product that seamlessly integrates with existing services and devices. The company plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign in the coming months for the splitR transceiver and is currently building a waitlist for the connectR app.
- Auracast adoption is hindered by a lack of support from major manufacturers, particularly Apple.
- Atitan’s splitR transceiver offers a workaround, adding Auracast capability to iPhones and other devices.
- The splitR is designed for universal compatibility, working with any Auracast-enabled headphones or speakers.
- Auracast has significant potential to improve accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments.
- Atitan will launch a Kickstarter campaign for the splitR in the coming months.
