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[–] Rakosman 0 points 4 points (+4|-0) ago 

The digital to analogue conversion literally must happen somewhere. For a device that is become more and more inclusive with functionalities, it makes no sense to remove one. They have some valid arguments, regarding water tightness, and smoothness of design, but those would also be valid cases for removing the data port and moving to only wireless.

Having the speakers deal with their own conversion has some advantages - hardware makers will have more control over the sound - but it's really a non issue especially compared to the disbenefits.

By removing the analogue port they are taking away the universality of headphones, just like they do by not using USB. And, just like USB, it is an effort to keep tight control over what's used with their devices. In some ways, you could make the argument that it also allows them to ensure that the customer has a significantly reduced chance of having a bad experience (like using shitty headphones and blaming it on the phone) but they make shitty headphones, so that's also not really an issue.

Ultimately, removing the port removes functionality from a technology that is adding functionality everywhere else, it reduces consumer choice, and it increase the cost to the consumer. Stacked up like that, it seems reasonable to conclude that it's primarily about revenue.

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[–] PotatoFarm ago 

Good analysis, however, I wouldn't be so kind to even consider it, even for a moment, an attempt to make the transition from digital to analog. The truth is that the 3.5mm jack is (And I hope it'll continue to be) a modern wonder in a world of unnecessary and proprietary standards.

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[–] VillaLopez 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

He wasn't considering it, he was explaining in a nice way how stupid it was to remove this, since it has to be done anyways. See, if I understand this right (i am no expert), the DAC is also removed (since DAC is needed for the 3.5mm), and a DAC is included with the wireless thinger that you plug headphones into, or the wireless headphones have their own DAC. So it's stupid to remove something that is still needed to hear the music.