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Adapter Sold Out: The 3.5mm to Lightning headphone adapter is listed as sold out on Apple's online store in the U.S. and most countries.
History of Adapter: Included in the box with iPhone 7, 8, and X models at no additional cost. Since the iPhone XS, Apple no longer includes the adapter in the box.
Why the Adapter is Disappearing: The adapter allows users to connect wired headphones to iPhones without a headphone jack via the Lightning port.
Models Included: However, iPhone models with Lightning ports (iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE) are expected to be discontinued next year, with USB-C being the new standard.
Current iPhone Lineup: iPhone 15 and 16 models are now equipped with USB-C ports, making the 3.5mm Lightning adapter obsolete. Apple now sells a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter for the newer models.
Other Audio Accessories: Apple continues to sell wired EarPods in USB-C, Lightning, and 3.5mm versions alongside its wireless AirPods lineup.
Discontinuation Trend: The discontinuation of the 3.5mm to Lightning adapter follows a similar pattern with the USB-powered SuperDrive, which also sold out globally earlier this year.
Shift to USB-C: iPhone 15 & 16 adopt USB-C, aligning with global standards and advancing the trend toward port standardization.