The headphone jack used to be one of the most prominent features of any Apple launched the iPhone 7 in 2016, the 3.5mm headphone jack has become an increasingly rare feature on smartphones. In fact, it's basically nonexistent on flagship models these days. While there are still some models here and there that retain the legacy port, an increasing number of handsets released today don't have it. It's annoying, frustrating, and the simple nature of where smartphones are at right now.
Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the headphone jack is being resurrected any time soon. Although the Galaxy S22 series is equipped with tons of flagship specs/features, it does not come with a 3.5mm headphone jack. This is true of the regular Galaxy S22, the Galaxy S22+, and Galaxy S22 Ultra. No matter which version of the S22 someone buys, none of the phones have a dedicated headphone jack. While Samsung still uses the feature on some of its more affordable smartphones, it's been a while since we saw a headphone jack on a Galaxy S device. Before the S22 series, Samsung also ditched the headphone jack with the S21 FE, S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S20 FE, S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra.
How To Use The Galaxy S22 Without A Headphone Jack
Although having a dedicated headphone jack can be quite useful, it's far less of a necessity today than it was a few years ago. This is primarily due to the fact that wireless headphones/earbuds have gotten dramatically better in recent years. Samsung itself offers a ton of excellent options these days. The Galaxy Buds 2, for example, deliver good audio quality, reliable battery life, and active noise-canceling on a budget. Those who want a more option can consider the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. Then there are earbuds from other manufacturers, such as the Pixel Buds Pro and Sony WF-1000XM4.
And for folks who aren't ready to leave the wired headphone world just yet, it is still possible to use wired headphones with the Galaxy S22. One option is to buy a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter. It's a small dongle that plugs into the Galaxy S22's USB-C port and has a headphone jack on the other end — allowing you to use your wired headphones as if the phone always had the port. Headphone adapters are readily available online from companies like Samsung and Anker, many of which can be purchased for $10 or less.
Use Type-C Headphones With The Galaxy S22
If you don't want to mess with a dongle, it may be worth buying a pair of headphones that natively connect to the Galaxy S22's USB-C port. Keep in mind that you won't be able to charge the smartphone while using Type-C headphones. Most USB-C headphones tend to be budget models that don't focus too much on audio quality, but they are another option to consider. A quick search on Amazon reveals a bunch of options for USB-C headphones, but they're not a huge category, and most popular audio brands might not be available.
Samsung's AKG USB-C headphones are a safe bet. They feature an inline remote and microphone that makes them ideal for calls, and come with different size ear tips and a velvet carrying case. The Skullcandy Set In-Ear Type-C headphones are another option with excellent audio quality. And those who want more flexibility can check out the Logitech G333, which let s switch between Type-C and 3.5mm connectivity options. The Logitech headphones feature a more build, come in multiple colors, and feature dual drivers that make them ideal for use while gaming.
Why Did Samsung Remove The Headphone Jack?
Samsung hasn't provided an official reason as to why it didn't include a headphone jack on the Galaxy S22, but the most obvious explanation seems to be profits. Given that Samsung sells a number of wireless earbuds, excluding the headphone jack from its phones increases demand for its audio products. While s do have the option to use any wireless earbuds from third-party brands, there are obvious benefits to using a pair of Samsung buds that provide exclusive features.
There are other reasons for the shift away from 3.5mm jacks, one of which is the design factor. An additional port takes up space on a phone, and removing it frees up more room for additional components like the battery, while allowing for more design modifications. The removal of the audio jack also helps with waterproofing, given that it's one less port for Samsung to factor in with an IP rating. Either way, it looks like the 3.5mm headphone jack is going extinct, and not just on Samsung phones.
Source: Samsung