Phones with headphone port

The audio jack plug, sometimes called a latch, is a type of plug used for headphones. It is available in 2.5mm and 3.5mm but the 3.5mm variant is by far the most popular for electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops. In recent years, however, it has become increasingly common for manufacturers to omit the port. Due to lack of space or for economic reasons.

History of audio jack

The audio jack, also known as headphone jack or TRS jack, is an invention that dates back to 1878. The plug has always been used for transmitting audio, initially mainly on switchboards. The plug consists of several parts so it can be used to transmit data in addition to 2 audio channels. The latter is often used for a microphone or a control button. The 3.5-millimetre version of the audio jack plug that we all now know dates back to 1960. This variant is also called TRRS for short; Tip, Ring, Ring and Sleeve.

Disappearing headphone port

In 2016, Apple shocked friend and foe by releasing the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus without this port. Apple felt the port was unnecessary because you could also connect headphones, via an adapter, to the Lighting port. Moreover, omitting it would create space for more important components, such as a larger battery. It would also improve sound quality and make the device more waterproof. Apple was widely criticised for this decision, saying it wanted to boost sales of the wireless AirPods.

Many other phone manufacturers now saw it as an advantage that their phones did have the port. Many even advertised it. Yet in the years that followed, many others also said goodbye to the beloved port. Apparently, consumers did not think the port was as important as thought after all. Possibly helped in part by the huge success of the AirPods. Samsung, Google, HTC; all stepped away from them. Others like LG and Sony actually see it as a differentiating feature by equipping their phones with it.