The development kit, available through Apple's MFi Program, includes a form factor reference design and other resources to help MFi licensees create Lightning-Based headphones. A reference iOS app is also available.
The MFi Headset Development Kit demonstrates the advantages of Lightning-connected headsets over conventional analog headsets. For example, digital connectivity with an integrated, high-performance DAC and headphone driver delivers high-fidelity audio to the headphone speakers. In addition, Lightning-connected Headphones can interact with an iOS app to create a more custom audio experience, such as personalized EQ settings.
Multiple credible sources have confirmed that Apple plans to remove the 3.5mm headphone plug on the iPhone 7 ****** in favor of an all-in-one Lightning connector for audio output, charging, and connectivity, but only a handful of Lightning-equipped Headphones are available today.
Apple introduced new MFi Program specifications in June 2014 that allow third-party manufacturers to create Headphones that connect to iOS devices via a Lightning cable, but the rollout has been slow. Philips has unveiled Lightning-equipped Fidelio M2L and Fidelio NC1L headphones, pictured above, over the past two years.