Apple Introduces Lightning Cable MFi Specifications for Headphones

[APlotdevice]

I am sure that is in the mix if they phase out the 3.5-mm connector in the iPhone 7. Can see why they are going this way as the real estate for this connector can be used for other components such as touch sensing to the left and right of the home button.

There will be the usual "connector switch" complaints and drama similar to transitioning to the Lighting connector from the 30-pin connector. Those with money upgrades to buy the new stuff. The cheap ones will complain with anyone of value not caring about the complaints.

They're not going to phase out the 3.5mm connector. It's a universal standard that's been around for more than a century.

 

[CFreymarc]

They're not going to phase out the 3.5mm connector. It's a universal standard that's been around for more than a century.

If you really want to get to brass tacks, the 3.5-mm connector is a militurized replacement of the 0.25-inch "banana jack" connector. The transition occured between these two in the early 80's with the mass market, portable stereo cassette players such as the Walkman. Then there is the even smaller 2.5-mm connector that was popular on several Palm mobile systems models. You can buy connector adapters between these types at any stereo store.

 

[ftaok]

Regarding the notion that Apple will/won't drop the 3.5 connector … what if getting rid of it helps Apple make a more water resistant iPhone? I remember reading that he lightning port is water proof but the headphone plug isn't.

Would dropping there headphone plug be worth it for more assurance that dropping your phone in a sink won't kill it.

 

[CFreymarc]

Regarding the notion that Apple will/won't drop the 3.5 connector … what if getting rid of it helps Apple make a more water resistant iPhone? I remember reading that he lightning port is water proof but the headphone plug isn't.

Would dropping there headphone plug be worth it for more assurance that dropping your phone in a sink won't kill it.

There are waterproof 3.5-mm stereo connectors out there. Issues is size and gaskets that would not fit with the current iPhone thickness or less. My take is we'll see the usual bitching similar to the 30-pin to Lightning connector transition.

Get ready to lots of 3.5-mm to Lightning connector stub cables!