How to fix USB-C wired headphone issues on iPhone 16?

After updating to iOS 18.5 / 18.6, a bug with wired headphones (via USB-C) arose: if you pause playback and then turn it back on, the sound does not return in any application. Only reconnecting the headphones helps. Please fix this in the next update. Device: iPhone 16.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: bag with wired headphones via USB-C

iPhone 16, iOS 18

Posted on Jul 31, 2025 10:13 AM

Similar questions

iPadOS 18.5 audio issue with USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter I bought an iPad (A16) in April and have been using a USB-C to 3.5 mm headphone jack adapter with it. Following the iPadOS 18.5 update, audio stopped playing through my 3.5 mm earphones. I reset my iPad, but the issue remained. It works fine with the built-in speakers or my Bluetooth headset, but not my earphones.
6776 13
Lightning to 3.5mm audio cable stopped audio to wired headphones after upgrade to IOS 16.5.1 I use wired headphones with iPhone 13 at night. This stopped working immediately after I upgraded IOS 16.5.1. I have been using the same lightning to 3.5mm audio adapter cable for several months since buying iPhone 13. I have completely rebooted the iPhone. I have unplugged and replugged in the lightning cable connector. I am reasonably sure that it was the IOS upgrade which caused this problem. Are there any tests to perform or changes to settings which will solve this?
2646 2
Wired headphone problems So lately I’ve been trying to use my headphones to do things like listen to music, take calls, etc… And I’ve found that when there is no audio output my iPhone XR will show that headphones are connected, but after a few seconds of media playing through the headphones the phone will automatically switch to loud speaker, without pausing the media like it usually would. I have the apple wired headphones so there’s no cross branding, and everything was fine a couple of days ago. is there a way to fix this? is this a problem on apple’s end? will the world be taken over by toast? we may never know…
5251 1

1 reply

ChrisJ4203

Level 10

236,631 points

Jul 31, 2025 11:05 AM in response to ronybig

You are not addresing Apple here. This is a user to user support forum and Apple does not participate here. If you wish to let Apple know about this, use the feedback link here. Feedback - iPhone - Apple While you will not receive an individual response, Apple reads all feedback and sends it to the appropriate department.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to fix USB-C wired headphone issues on iPhone 16?

Welcome to Apple Support Community

A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.

Learn more Sign up