First launched in 2016, Apple’s Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter may soon be reaching the end of its lifecycle (via MacRumors).
This accessory was introduced alongside the iPhone 7, the first iPhone model to omit the 3.5mm headphone jack. If you wanted to connect traditional wired headphones (other than the Lightning EarPods included), this adapter was necessary.
The adapter was packaged with the iPhone 7, 8, and X, but starting from the iPhone XS and XR, Apple ceased its inclusion, requiring users to purchase it separately for $9.
With current iPhones transitioning to USB-C, Apple still offers a USB-C to headphone jack adapter for iPhone 15 and later models. However, if you own an iPhone 14 or earlier, your opportunity to buy this adapter may be dwindling.
Currently, it is marked as “sold out” on Apple’s online store, which doesn’t definitively imply it’s discontinued—but it’s a significant indication. As noted in MacRumors’ coverage, a similar scenario occurred with Apple’s USB SuperDrive, which sold out ahead of its quiet discontinuation.
While it’s unavailable online in the US and numerous other countries, you can still find it in France, Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden.
There will likely be MFi alternatives available, but if you specifically desire the Apple version—act fast. Amazon appears to be out of stock, but you can still purchase it from Best Buy at a slightly reduced price from the original $9.
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