This early, it is safe to say that consumers can't yet make up their minds whether the absence of a headphone jack is a good thing for the iPhone 7. But for those still frustrated, such as the segment struggling with the learning curve, there is a new dongle called iLDOCK, which promises to bring back the 3.5 mm audio port.
iLDOCK is a module that can be plugged into the iPhone 7 through its Lightning port, enabling users to plug in a 3.5 mm headphone. What makes it special, however, is its capability to use the headset and the Lightning port for charging at the same time.
One must remember that iPhone 7 owners received a 3.5 mm Lightning adapter along with their handsets. But that dongle can only accommodate the audio jack and not the charger for those who want to listen to music and charge at the same time. iLDOCK's bigger variant called iLDOCK Plus takes this even further by including a USB port and SD/TF card slots.
Fashion conscious iPhone 7 owners should also not worry about its design. The modules' aircraft grade aluminum construction looks well with the Apple handset. The Plus variant, however, is another story. It is positively humungous, makes it an awkward pair to the iPhone 7.
What is even more interesting is that an iLDOCK dongle could retail for $10. It is only a dollar more expensive than Apple's Lightning adapter considering it offers better value due to the extra port.
Unfortunately, iLDOCK is still not available in the market. ildockgear, the company behind the device, is currently raising money at Kickstarter to build the prototypes.
"We want to bring this product to market as fast as possible for all the iPhone users out there," ildockgear said. "We would need the money to mass produce and get certification to bring this product to you."
iLDOCK's Kickstarter campaign has a funding goal of $5,000, which it already surpassed. With 27 days to go before the campaign ends, it has already raised $24,951 at this time of writing.
Early Kickstarter supporters are entitled to one basic 2-in-1 iLDOCK dongle for every $5 pledge. This offer, however, has already been filled up. The dongle is only available to backers pledging $10 or more. The Plus variant is being offered for $20 pledges or more. If you are quick enough, you can still snag this accessory for $15 since its Super Early Bird package has not yet been filled as of this writing.
ildockgear promises to ship the iLDOCK dongle as early as November.
