Sources credited Apple plans to abandon the use in the iPhone 7 standard 3.5-mm audio connector. About it last week told journalists Macotakara, citing “reliable sources”.
Apple will refuse Jack for the sake of the struggle for the thickness of the shell smartphone in the best traditions of the company, not much clinging to all sorts of anachronisms. This will produce the “thinnest iPhone ever”. Headphones and headset will connect to it either via the Lightning port (USB-C?) or Bluetooth. In both cases, the accessory manufacturers are in for trouble.
The rejection of a 3.5-mm audio connector will close the era of analog autointerface, the history of which originates in the 1950-ies. But for Apple, it will not be the first such experience. In 1998, she began selling iMac G3, which in addition to the design was the lack of any 3.5-inch drive. In the late 90’s floppy drive was considered almost the main component of a modern computer, but because the company’s decision not to install it in the PC, it looked as Frank savage.
In 2012, Apple did not install an optical drive in MacBook Pro with Retina display, which reduces the dimensions of the laptop and install a more capacious battery. The company resolutely refused DVD, as a basic carrier of information: currently in Apple’s product line all computers are deprived of the CD-ROM drive. Similarly unexpectedly, the company has translated the iOS devices with 30-pin connector to Lightning.
Apple head of worldwide product marketing Phil Schiller told that “old technologies are anchors” that do not allow the company to move forward. In Cupertino are not afraid to get rid of the solutions that has become outdated, and users of “Apple” products in the meaning of trust.
However, it is believed that Apple will be difficult to convince producers to abandon headphone audio Jack in favor of Lightning interface. They will have to release two models of headphones with a 3.5 mm port, compatible with thousands of devices, including older iPod and iPhone models, and iPhone 7.
“The headphones are of great importance at the hardware level. Users, as a rule, they are used not only with Apple products, but also with other mobile devices. In addition, they can be connected to any PC or TV,” said Stephen Baker of the NPD Group. Lightning headphones will be used exclusively for Apple mobile devices. And it is unlikely to appeal to ordinary users who are accustomed to “universal AudioCenter” with a standard mini-Jack.
Still, many have doubts that the 3.5 mm Jack has outlived its usefulness. Is it worth sacrificing the usual audio Jack in order to make the new iPhone “the thinnest in history”, what do you think?
