Why Did We Lose the Headphone Jack—and Do We Need It Back?

When Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone 7 in 2016, it felt like the end of an era. The 3.5mm port had been a universal standard for decades, and suddenly, it was gone. Apple framed it as an act of “courage”, claiming that removing the jack made room for new technology and improved water resistance. But was it really about innovation—or something else entirely?

A Push Toward Wireless Profits

Let’s be real—Apple had more than just innovation in mind. The removal of the headphone jack conveniently coincided with the release of AirPods, which went on to become a billion-dollar business. And, unsurprisingly, other brands followed suit. Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and even budget phone manufacturers eventually ditched the port, making wireless earbuds the new norm.

Wireless vs. Wired: Did We Lose More Than We Gained?

There’s no doubt that wireless earbuds are convenient, but they come with trade-offs.

• Battery Life Issues: Unlike wired headphones, wireless earbuds degrade over time and need frequent charging.
• Sound Quality Concerns: Audiophiles will tell you that wired headphones still provide better sound quality, with no compression or latency issues.
• Durability Matters: A wired pair of headphones can last for years, whereas wireless models may die after a couple of battery cycles.

Are Wired Headphones Making a Comeback?

Recently, there’s been a resurgence of interest in wired headphones. From TikTok trends to celebrity endorsements, wired audio is becoming a style statement. High-end studio headphones and audiophile-grade gear are still wired for a reason—because they offer unmatched fidelity compared to Bluetooth alternatives.

Should Smartphone Brands Bring It Back?

With USB-C ports now supporting high-quality wired audio, some users are wondering if it’s time for a headphone jack comeback. While most flagship phones are unlikely to bring it back, some brands like Sony and Asus still include it in select models, catering to users who value wired audio over wireless convenience.

The Verdict: Did We Really Need to Lose It?

The headphone jack’s removal may have seemed inevitable, but in hindsight, it was more about business than necessity. While wireless tech has improved, there’s still a demand for wired audio, especially among music lovers and professionals. So, maybe it’s time to ask—was “courage” really worth it?