Resolve Bluetooth handoff glitches on Sony WF‑X B700

Overview

If you own a pair of Sony WF‑X B700 earbuds, you have likely enjoyed the convenience of wireless audio and the promise of smooth handoff between devices. However, many users encounter occasional glitches when the earbuds try to switch from one Bluetooth source to another. These glitches can manifest as dropped audio, delayed playback, or the earbuds refusing to reconnect at all. This guide walks you through a systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing Bluetooth handoff problems on the WF‑X B700. By following the steps carefully, you can restore reliable connectivity and get back to an uninterrupted listening experience.

Understanding Bluetooth Handoff

Bluetooth handoff is the process where a set of wireless headphones or earbuds automatically transfers an active audio stream from one paired device to another. For example, you might be listening to music on a smartphone, then receive a call on a tablet, and the earbuds should seamlessly pause the music and switch to the call. The WF‑X B700 rely on the Bluetooth 5.0 standard, which includes features such as low‑energy scanning, fast reconnection, and multi‑point support.

Handoff glitches typically arise from one or more of the following factors:

• Out‑of‑date firmware on the earbuds or the source devices
• Conflicting Bluetooth settings or stale pairing information
• Interference from other wireless devices operating on the 2.4 GHz band
• Power‑saving features that disable scanning when the battery is low
• Incomplete implementation of the Bluetooth multipoint profile on certain operating systems

Understanding these underlying causes helps you select the right troubleshooting step instead of trial‑and‑error guessing.

Common Symptoms

Before diving into fixes, confirm which symptoms you are experiencing. The most frequently reported issues include:

• Audio cut‑out when switching from phone to laptop or vice versa
• Delayed playback where the new source does not start immediately after the switch
• Failure to reconnect after the earbuds have been placed back in the case
• Only one earbud connects while the other remains silent or disconnected
• Persistent pairing prompt that appears each time you try to switch devices

If you notice any of these signs, proceed with the troubleshooting steps below. If the problem is intermittent, try reproducing the glitch in a controlled environment (e.g., same room, same devices) to gather reliable data for later steps.

Preparation

A clean slate makes troubleshooting easier. Gather the following before you begin:

• The Sony WF‑X B700 charging case and both earbuds
• The primary devices you use (smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.)
• Access to a stable Wi‑Fi network for firmware downloads
• A USB‑C cable (if required for a wired firmware update)

Make sure the earbuds are sufficiently charged—at least 50 percent—so they do not power down during the process.

Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting

Reset the Earbuds

Sometimes residual data in the earbuds’ memory interferes with handoff. A simple reset can clear this.

1. Place both earbuds in the charging case and keep the lid open.
2. Press and hold the button on the case for about ten seconds until the indicator light flashes red three times, then green three times.
3. Release the button. The earbuds will power off and automatically restart, returning to factory defaults for Bluetooth pairing.

After the reset, attempt to pair again with your primary device. If the glitch persists, move to the next step.

Update Earbud Firmware

Sony regularly releases firmware updates that address connectivity bugs and improve multipoint performance. Keeping the WF‑X B700 firmware current is essential.

1. Download the Sony Headphones Connect app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app and allow it to detect your WF‑X B700 earbuds.
3. If an update is available, a banner will appear at the top of the screen. Tap Update and follow the on‑screen instructions.
4. Ensure the earbuds remain in the case and the case is connected to a power source (or has at least 30 percent battery) during the update.

The update process may take several minutes. Once complete, the app will confirm the new firmware version.

Reset Bluetooth on the Source Device

Stale pairing records on a smartphone, tablet, or computer can cause handoff failures. Resetting the Bluetooth stack clears these records.

On Android:

1. Open Settings → Connected devices → Bluetooth.
2. Toggle the Bluetooth switch off, wait three seconds, then toggle it back on.

On iOS:

1. Open Settings → Bluetooth.
2. Toggle Bluetooth off, wait a moment, then toggle it on again.

On Windows 10/11:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings, then go to Devices → Bluetooth & other devices.
2. Switch Bluetooth off, wait a few seconds, then switch it back on.

After resetting, attempt to reconnect the WF‑X B700. If the handoff still glitches, continue.

Clear Bluetooth Cache (Android Only)

Android devices keep a hidden cache of Bluetooth device information. Corruption in this cache can affect multipoint handoff.

1. Open Settings → Apps → Show system apps (enable this option via the three‑dot menu).
2. Locate Bluetooth in the list and tap it.
3. Choose Storage, then tap Clear cache. Do not tap Clear data unless you are prepared to re‑pair all Bluetooth devices.

Re‑enable Bluetooth and pair the earbuds again.

Adjust Audio Codec Settings

Some devices default to a lower‑quality codec (SBC) that may interfere with fast handoff. Switching to a higher‑performance codec like aptX or AAC can improve stability.

• On Android: Install a third‑party app such as Bluetooth Codec Switcher (requires root for full control). Select aptX or LDAC if your device supports them.
• On iOS: The operating system automatically chooses the best codec. Ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version for optimal codec handling.

After changing the codec, test a handoff scenario to see if performance improves.

Disable Battery Optimization for Bluetooth

Aggressive power‑saving modes can pause Bluetooth scanning, making handoff slower or causing it to fail.

• Android: Settings → Battery → Battery usage → Bluetooth → select Unrestricted or Don't optimize.
• iOS: Settings → Battery → Low Power Mode – turn this off while troubleshooting.

Re‑pair the Earbuds with Each Device

If the earbuds have been paired with several devices over time, the internal list of trusted connections may become cluttered. Remove the WF‑X B700 from each device’s paired list, then re‑pair in the order you intend to use them.

1. In the Bluetooth settings of each device, locate WF‑X B700 and select Forget or Remove.
2. With the earbuds reset and the case open, put them into pairing mode by holding the touch sensor on each earbud for five seconds until the LED blinks rapidly.
3. Pair them again with your primary smartphone, then add the secondary device.

This approach ensures the earbuds prioritize the most recent connection and improves multipoint decisions.

Use the Sony Headphones Connect App for Multipoint Management

The Sony app provides a dedicated interface for enabling and configuring the multipoint feature.

1. Open the app after the earbuds are connected.
2. Navigate to Settings → Connection → Multipoint.
3. Toggle Multipoint on, then select Auto‑switch if the option appears.
4. Save the changes and exit the app.

Test the handoff by playing audio from one device, then initiating a call on the other. The app may also reveal diagnostic logs that indicate where the process stalls.

Check for Wireless Interference

Bluetooth operates in the crowded 2.4 GHz band, which is shared with Wi‑Fi, microwaves, and other peripherals. Reducing interference can markedly improve handoff reliability.

• Keep the earbuds and source devices within a reasonable range (ideally less than three meters).
• Turn off nearby Wi‑Fi routers temporarily to see if the issue resolves.
• Move away from cordless phone bases or baby monitors that operate on the same frequency.

If relocating solves the problem, consider assigning your Wi‑Fi to the 5 GHz band to free up more space for Bluetooth.

Advanced: Factory Reset the Earbuds

When all other strategies fail, a full factory reset returns the earbuds to their original software state. This step erases any custom settings, including EQ profiles and touch‑control configurations.

1. Ensure the earbuds are in the case with the lid closed.
2. Press and hold the reset button (a small pinhole on the side of the case) for fifteen seconds.
3. Release the button; the indicator will flash amber three times, indicating a factory reset.

After the reset, repeat the pairing process from scratch. This is often the most effective cure for stubborn handoff glitches.

Test with an Alternative Device

If possible, test the WF‑X B700 with a device you have not used before—such as a friend’s smartphone or a spare laptop. This helps determine whether the issue is specific to one device’s Bluetooth stack or a broader problem with the earbuds.

• Pair the earbuds with the new device.
• Perform a handoff test: play audio on the new device, then switch to the original device for a call or audio source.

If the handoff works flawlessly on the alternative device, focus on the original device’s settings or firmware updates.

Preventive Tips

Even after resolving the glitch, applying good habits can keep the WF‑X B700 performing reliably:

• Regularly update firmware using the Sony Headphones Connect app. Set a monthly reminder to check for updates.
• Keep the case charged. Low battery levels can cause the earbuds to disable scanning, affecting handoff.
• Limit the number of paired devices. The more devices stored in the internal list, the higher the chance of connection conflicts.
• Use the case’s automatic power‑off feature wisely. If you frequently switch devices, disable the auto‑off timer to keep the earbuds actively scanning.
• Avoid crowded Wi‑Fi channels. If you experience interference, switch your router to a less congested channel or move to a 5 GHz network.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you reduce the likelihood of future handoff problems.

When to Seek Professional Support

If you have exhausted all the steps above and the earbuds still fail to hand off reliably, it may indicate a hardware defect or a deeper firmware issue beyond user resolution.

• Check the warranty status on Sony’s official website using the serial number found on the case.
• Contact Sony Support via phone, chat, or email. Provide them with details of the troubleshooting steps you have taken, alongside the firmware version and device models involved.
• Consider a replacement if the earbuds are still under warranty and the issue is reproducible.

In rare cases, Sony releases a special firmware patch for specific models. Keeping an eye on community forums and official release notes ensures you do not miss such critical updates.

Summary

Bluetooth handoff on the Sony WF‑X B700 can be disrupted by outdated firmware, lingering Bluetooth records, power‑saving settings, or wireless interference. By methodically resetting the earbuds, updating their firmware, clearing Bluetooth caches, adjusting codecs, and managing multipoint settings through the Sony app, most users can restore seamless switching between devices. Additional measures like reducing interference and maintaining a regular update schedule help prevent future glitches. Should problems persist, Sony’s warranty and support channels are the next step.

With the procedures outlined above, you now have a comprehensive toolkit to diagnose, fix, and safeguard against Bluetooth handoff glitches, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted audio wherever you move.