So there we have it, folks. The hordes of rumors turned out to be true. Apple has ditched the 3.5mm audio jack on its latest smartphones, the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. Headphones will, instead, connect to the handsets via Lightning cable or Bluetooth.
As I’m sure you’re well aware, the Cupertino company has always included a set of wired EarPods in the box of every iPhone it’s previously shipped. However, it goes without saying that standard earphones aren’t going to work with the iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus as the devices are missing the required jack plug.
To combat this issue, Apple has introduced two new sets of earphones — the Lightning EarPods and the Wireless AirPods. As their names suggest, the former will connect to the handsets via a Lightning cable, while the latter will pair using Bluetooth.
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The AirPods are the real stars of the show here, though. Although they’re extremely ugly, the functionality they offer is truly great. They have a five-hour battery life, a built-in microphone, and recharge in their portable carry case via a regular Lightning cable.
Obviously, as these are official accessories, they aren’t going to be cheap. Fortunately, though, Apple will be including a free pair of the EarPods in the box of the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. The AirPods, on the other hand, will likely burn a hole in your pocket.
Follow our coverage of Apple’s iPhone 7 keynote and find the latest stories about it here.
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