USB Type-C to replace 3.5-mm headphone jack

USB Type-C will eventually become the norm and Intel says consumers need not fret too much about the transition.  Image INQUIRER.net

Major smartphone manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, Motorola and Huawei have begun adopting USB Type-C into their flagship devices, doing away with the traditional 3.5-mm headphone jack. However, Intel says the Type-C will help ease the transition for consumers.

First and foremost, many are concerned about not being able to use their favorite audio accessories because a dongle to connect to the new port will not be available out-of-the-box, reports Engadget.

However, Intel company architect Brad Saunders explained on Tuesday at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco, USA, that users will come around eventually, thanks to the advantages that the USB C will have on sound quality. Features such as noise canceling and extra bass can be added in future devices. Smartphones can also be made slimmer because some chips needed for analog sound processing will no longer be needed.

The new port will also have “granular” power management that will allow devices to manage power on in-line microphones, for instance, so that headphones will not consume too much power when just listening to music. Split dongles should also become available to allow users to charge their devices while listening to music.

This updated USB Type-C standard will include device authentication for better security. Lastly, a new video standard will be incorporated into the USB Type-C.  Alfred Bayle