OK! To clean out the connector:
Compressed air will not work as most of the lint is jam packed on the bottom. I used a sewing needle and just poked at the bottom of the connector, being very careful not to scratch the metal strips in the center.
You have to pick and poke at the bottom to lift the lint.
You can use a plastic poker or something.
It just has to be long and skinny enough to reach to the bottom.
Now go clean those phones like I just cleaned out my ear!!!
interesting...