This is what the new iPhone could have instead of a headphone jack

Nicole Morley

This is what the new iPhone could have instead of a headphone jack (Picture: Behance)

A leaked research memo appears to show what the iPhone 7 could look like if the rumours about Apple ditching the headphone jack are true.
Last month we reported the tech firm were planning to remove the socket from their next smartphone.
Now a Barclays research memo obtained by AppleInsider suggests it will be replaced with a second speaker.
The move would give the iPhone 7 stereo audio, to compete with rivals like the HTC and give an edge over the Sumsung Galaxy S7, which has a single mono speaker.
The headphone socket on the iPhone 6s is located on the same side as the single speaker, which could make it the obvious location to expand into stereo.

It’s believed the smartphone would have a second speaker instead (Picture: Behance)

Theese concept renders, courtesy of Behance, show how the move could prove in-keeping with Apple’s sleek and symmetrical designs.
The rumours have caused concern that Apple fans who get their hands on the sought-after smartphone might also have to upgrade standard headphones to a pricier pair capable of wireless connectivity.
There’s already a petition to prevent Apple ditching the socket.
It’s expected the new phone will ship with wireless headphones – but it would mean that ‘normal’ headphones wouldn’t work with the handset.

The iPhone 7’s new look (Picture: Behance)

If true, it would mean that millions of iPhone users might need to upgrade their headphones, or use an adapter.
Headphones which plug in via the port are already available  – such as Philips’ M2L cans – which offer increased sound quality by using the port’s power to drive a built-in amplifier and digital-analogue converter (DAC).
Users could also opt for wireless Bluetooth headphones – or use an adapter to attach older headphone jacks.
Otherwise, people would have to fork out for new cans – which could be pricey, as Philips’ M2Ls come in at £200.