Over the years of smartphone development, many major manufacturers have contributed to the entire industry. These contributions do not necessarily refer to sophisticated technologies related to functions and configurations, but also include product design concepts and appearance styles. Apple is one of them, and its strength lies in the fact that even if it does not introduce a technology or design style first, once it enters the market, the entire industry will begin to adopt it. There are many examples of this, one of which is the removal of the 3.5mm headphone jack. Apple's decision caused significant controversy in the industry at the time and was considered unfriendly to users of older accessories.

Despite the criticism, the entire industry followed the path set by Apple. After Apple removed the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone 7, other manufacturers began to follow suit. However, abruptly discontinuing an older feature was unfair to users of older devices. Therefore, Apple provided a Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter for free for two years to help users of older iPhones transition.

During the iPhone XS era, Apple stopped including this accessory with purchases, but it was still available for sale in the official store. Users who chose to use 3.5mm headphones had to purchase the adapter themselves. After many years, the Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter is now sold out on official channels, and there are rumors that the accessory has been discontinued. This marks the end of an era, specifically the era of the Lightning port, as Apple still sells USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapters.

Since Apple was forced to switch to USB-C ports across the entire iPhone 15 lineup due to external pressure, the 10-year reign of the Lightning port has come to an end. By 'end,' we do not merely mean in terms of industry trends but also in terms of user experience, which has significantly lagged behind. Firstly, there are virtually no third-party manufacturers producing Lightning accessories anymore. More importantly, the Lightning port can no longer meet users' daily needs in terms of data transfer speeds and charging rates.

In fact, the USB-C to 3.5mm adapter has never been well-received by most users. Many iPhone users have reported that it not only compromises sound quality but also prevents simultaneous charging and listening to music. Many consider it a superfluous accessory, especially with the increasing popularity of wireless headphones, which make wired connections seem obsolete. Although Apple still sells USB-C to 3.5mm adapters, it is only a matter of time before they are phased out.

Honestly, there is no need to cling to outdated products that no longer fit the times. As long as you don't have overly demanding requirements, wireless headphones with decent quality can offer excellent sound. If not, third-party USB-C headphones, which are more affordable and compatible, can fully meet your needs. After Apple stopped including adapters, I personally believe that converters are the least necessary accessory.

Currently, an official USB-C to Lightning converter costs 243 yuan, while a decent third-party headphone can be purchased for around 100 yuan. The choice should be obvious.