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In 2016, Apple shocked the tech world by eliminating the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone 7. Although Apple initially included a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter in the box of every iPhone without a headphone jack, this left users with a dilemma: how to listen to music and charge the iPhone simultaneously. While Apple suggests using an iPhone charging dock to listen to music, this is not an ideal solution, especially if you want to use your phone while charging. Fortunately, there are alternative ways to solve this issue with Apple’s Lightning port.
This tutorial applies to iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone X, iPhone XS, and iPhone XR ranges.
1. Use a Wireless Headset
One of the easiest solutions to charging your iPhone and listening to music at the same time is by using a wireless headset. Since most wireless headphones rely on Bluetooth technology, this frees up the Lightning port for charging without worrying about sharing the port. You only need to ensure that your headphones are charged before using them. While Bluetooth headphones come in different shapes and sizes, you can purchase decent and affordable options like Jabra Move Wireless on-ear headphones or go for premium ones such as Bose QC35s with active noise cancellation or Apple’s second-generation AirPods.
2. Make Your Wired Headphones Wireless
If you prefer using your existing wired headphones instead of buying new wireless ones, you can make them wireless by using an adapter. For instance, you can use the Griffin iTrip Clip Bluetooth headphone adapter to connect your wired headphones to your iPhone via Bluetooth. This adapter also features media buttons for headphones that do not have them and a built-in microphone for use with Siri and phone calls. If you want to improve sound quality, Audiolab M-DAC Nano is a great option that not only makes your headphones wireless but also features a DAC and amplifier for better audio output.
3. Lightning Splitter
The Belkin Lightning splitter or “Lightning Audio + Charge Rockstar” allows users to connect two Lightning cables to one Lightning port. Although the adapter is pricey, it enables you to listen to music while charging your iPhone without affecting charging time. Belkin claims that the 12W pass-through charging powers the iPhone at maximum speed, and the audio quality remains unaffected, supporting up to 24-bit 48kHz lossless output.
FAQs
Can I charge my iPhone and use the headphone jack simultaneously?
iPhones that feature a 3.5mm headphone jack enable users to charge and use the headphone jack simultaneously by plugging the headphones into the audio port on the iPhone’s charging dock.
Can I use my iPhone while it’s charging?
Yes, you can use your iPhone while it’s charging. However, excessive usage of power-hungry apps, games, or media can slow down the charging speed or cause the iPhone to heat up.