Are Bluetooth headsets reliable in busy open-plan offices?

Absolutely! Bluetooth is a standard that can handle lots of noisy radio traffic without issue. Headsets use encryption to pair themselves to individual devices so there should be no possibility of cross talk or loss of connection. When you see lots of people on a morning commute on a train listening to their favourite podcast without hindrance, this represents a high traffic environment similar to a busy office, so it’s a good comparison. For busy offices, choose a good Bluetooth audio headset with a microphone that can handle background noise via Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). If you’re worried about losing signal between your headset and device, always remember to stay within a few metres of your laptop/phone and reduce the number of obstructions between the two. You can always try to re-pair in case you hear a crackle after changing desks.