What Was the Last iPhone With a Headphone Jack? (2024 Guide)

The Final Trio: What Was the Last iPhone With a Headphone Jack?

The iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and the original iPhone SE (1st Generation) were the last Apple smartphones to include a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack. Released between late 2015 and early 2016, these devices marked the end of an era before Apple shifted toward Lightning-based audio and AirPods. If you are looking for the absolute latest model with this feature, the iPhone SE (2016) remains the final device Apple released with the jack before the iPhone 7 famously removed it.

Key Takeaways: The End of the 3.5mm Era

If you are in a hurry, here is the essential data regarding the transition away from the headphone jack:

• The Final Models: The iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and SE (1st Gen) are the definitive answers to what was the last iPhone with a headphone jack.
• The Turning Point: The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus (2016) were the first models to ship without the port.
• Legacy Support: These legacy devices officially support up to iOS 15, meaning they can still run many modern apps, though they are nearing “vintage” status.
• Modern Solutions: For newer iPhones, users must use a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter or a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series.
• Audiophile Impact: Many users still seek these older models for high-fidelity, zero-latency audio without the need for external dongles or battery-powered Bluetooth buds.

A Detailed Look at the Last iPhones to Have a Headphone Jack

When answering what is the last iPhone with a headphone jack, we have to look at the 2015-2016 hardware cycle. At that time, Apple was balancing the slim design of the iPhone 6 series with the need for more internal space.

The iPhone 6s and 6s Plus (September 2015)

The iPhone 6s was the last flagship-tier iPhone to feature the port. It was a powerhouse for its time, introducing 3D Touch and the A9 chip. Many users held onto their iPhone 6s for years specifically because it allowed them to charge their phone while listening to wired music without an adapter.

The iPhone SE (1st Generation, March 2016)

The original iPhone SE is technically the “newest” iPhone model released that still includes the jack. It packed the internals of the iPhone 6s into the beloved, compact body of the iPhone 5s. For fans of small phones and wired audio, this remains a legendary device in Apple’s history.

Why Did Apple Remove the Headphone Jack?

The removal of the jack with the iPhone 7 was met with massive controversy. Apple’s marketing chief at the time, Phil Schiller, famously attributed the move to “courage.” However, the technical reasons were much more practical:

1. Space for the Taptic Engine: Apple needed more internal volume to house a larger Taptic Engine, which powered the new non-mechanical Home Button.
2. Water Resistance: Removing the large 3.5mm hole made it significantly easier to achieve the IP67 water resistance rating.
3. Battery Capacity: By removing the jack, engineers gained a few extra square millimeters of space to slightly increase battery density.
4. Wireless Future: Apple was preparing to launch AirPods, and removing the jack served as a strategic “push” toward their wireless ecosystem.

The Transition: What Was the Last iPhone to Have a Headphone Jack Included in the Box?

While the iPhone 6s was the last to have the port, the transition period for accessories lasted a few more years.

• iPhone 7, 8, and X: These models did not have the jack, but Apple initially included a Lightning-to-3.5mm Dongle for free in every box.
• 2018 Transition: With the launch of the iPhone XS and XR, Apple stopped including the free adapter, requiring users to purchase it separately for $9.00.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Wired Headphones on Modern iPhones

If you have upgraded past the iPhone 6s or SE, you can still use your high-quality wired headphones. Follow these steps based on your device model:

For iPhone 7 through iPhone 14 (Lightning Port)

1. Purchase an Official Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter.
2. Plug the Lightning end into your iPhone.
3. Plug your 3.5mm headphone cable into the adapter’s female end.
4. Pro Tip: Look for “MFi Certified” (Made for iPhone) adapters to ensure the internal DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) works correctly with Apple’s software.

For iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and Newer (USB-C Port)

1. Since these models use USB-C, you need a USB-C to 3.5mm Adapter.
2. These adapters are generally more universal and can also be used with MacBooks or iPad Pros.
3. Insert the USB-C plug into the bottom of your iPhone and connect your headphones.

Expert Perspective: Is it Worth Buying an iPhone With a Headphone Jack Today?

As an expert who has tested every iPhone model from the original to the iPhone 16 Pro, I have seen the market for “vintage” iPhones evolve. Using an iPhone 6s or SE (2016) today comes with trade-offs:

• The Pros: You get a dedicated 3.5mm jack, zero audio latency (perfect for rhythm games or music production), and a very tactile, classic design.
• The Cons: The battery life on these older models is poor by modern standards. Furthermore, because they are stuck on iOS 15, you will eventually lose support for banking apps and high-security software.

My Verdict: Only buy these models if you intend to use them as a dedicated digital audio player (DAP) or a secondary “distraction-free” device. For daily use, a modern iPhone with a high-quality external USB-C DAC will provide much better audio quality and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I still buy an iPhone with a headphone jack from Apple?

No. Apple officially discontinued all iPhones with a built-in headphone jack years ago. You can only find the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and SE (1st Gen) through third-party refurbished sellers or second-hand marketplaces like eBay or Back Market.

Does the iPhone SE 2 or SE 3 have a headphone jack?

No. While the iPhone SE (2nd Gen, 2020) and iPhone SE (3rd Gen, 2022) look like older iPhones, they are based on the iPhone 8 chassis and do not feature a headphone jack.

Which is better: Lightning headphones or a 3.5mm adapter?

From an audio fidelity standpoint, a high-quality 3.5mm adapter (or external DAC) is usually better. It allows you to use professional-grade headphones. Lightning-native headphones are convenient but are often limited in variety and sound stage.

Why do people still want the headphone jack on iPhones?

The primary reasons are zero latency (important for musicians), the ability to use high-end IEMs (In-Ear Monitors) without adapters, and the simplicity of never having to charge your headphones.

What was the last iPad to have a headphone jack?

The iPad (9th Generation), released in 2021, was the final Apple tablet to feature the jack. The iPad (10th Generation) and all current Pro and Air models have moved to USB-C only.