Type-C to AUX Adapter

Type-C to AUX Adapter: When Did It Appear, How Does It Work, and What Is It?

A Type-C to AUX adapter is a device that allows you to connect standard wired headphones with a 3.5 mm jack to devices equipped only with a USB Type-C port. This is particularly relevant for newer smartphones that no longer include a traditional audio jack.

When Did It Appear?

Type-C to AUX adapters began appearing after 2016, when smartphone manufacturers like Apple (with the iPhone 7) and Google (with the Pixel 2) started phasing out the 3.5 mm headphone jack. In the Android ecosystem, the widespread shift to USB-C began around 2017.

How Does It Work?

The adapter may include a built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) or rely on the smartphone’s internal DAC:

• Passive Adapters: These work only with phones that have a DAC integrated into the USB-C port (not all smartphones support this).
• Active Adapters: These have their own DAC and can work with most smartphones, regardless of internal DAC support.

Type-C to AUX Adapter: Will Headphones and Microphone Work on Android and iPhone?

With the rise of jackless smartphones, many manufacturers have abandoned the 3.5 mm (AUX) audio jack in favor of USB Type-C or Lightning ports. This has led users to rely on Type-C to AUX adapters. But do these adapters support both headphones and microphones across different devices? Let’s break it down.

Support on Android Devices

Most modern Android smartphones with USB Type-C ports support audio through this port, but there are nuances:

• Headphones: These almost always work with a high-quality adapter that includes a DAC.
• Microphone: Support depends on:
• The smartphone model.
• The Android version.
• The specific adapter (some support only audio output).

Recommendation: Check the adapter’s specifications before purchasing. Opt for original accessories from the smartphone manufacturer or certified products (e.g., from Google, Samsung, etc.).

Support on iPhone

For iPhones with Lightning ports, the situation differs:

• Apple’s Original Lightning to 3.5 mm Adapter:
• Full support for headphones and microphone.
• High sound quality.
• More expensive option.
• Third-Party Type-C to AUX Adapters for iPhone 15 and Newer:
• The iPhone 15 series uses USB Type-C.
• Support depends on MFi (Made for iPhone) certification.
• Non-MFi adapters may have issues with microphone functionality or volume control.

Common Issues and Solutions

• Microphone Not Working:
• Try a different adapter.
• Check microphone access permissions in the device settings.
• Update the smartphone’s software.
• Low Volume or Noise:
• Use an adapter with a high-quality DAC.
• Avoid cheap, no-name adapters.
• Adapter Not Working at All:
• Verify compatibility with your device.
• Test the adapter on another smartphone.

Conclusion

• On Android: High-quality Type-C to AUX adapters with a DAC typically support both headphones and microphones, but check reviews for specific models.
• On iPhone: Original or MFi-certified adapters are recommended for reliable performance.
• Best Solution: Choose adapters from your smartphone’s manufacturer or reputable brands (e.g., Anker, Belkin, UGREEN).

Here’s a video where I test a budget-friendly 100 UAH adapter for compatibility with three different smartphones from various brands and years: YouTube link.

Before purchasing, carefully review the product description and user reviews, especially regarding microphone functionality, as this is a common issue with low-quality adapters.