The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are fantastic gadgets with tons of awesome features. The headphone jack is one feature that is absent from the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, though. Google long ago removed the headphone jack from its Pixel smartphones. As a result, people who still want to use wired headphones now need adapters.
There is no denying that wired headphones are superior to wireless ones, particularly in terms of delay and audio quality. You’ve come to the correct place if you purchased a USB-C to 3.5mm jack adapter but your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro isn’t compatible with it. Let’s examine the potential causes of this problem and possible solutions.
Why Is the Pixel 8 / 8 Pro Headphone Jack / Adapter Not Working?
The headphone jack adapter on your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro may not be functioning for a number of reasons. Comprehending the underlying reasons behind this issue is crucial for effective troubleshooting. There are several reasons why this might be the case:
- Physical Damage: Breakage to the connecting cable, adaptor, or headphone jack is frequently the cause of issues. This group includes bent pins, frayed wires, and detached connectors. Audio problems can arise from any interference, no matter how slight.
- Dust & Debris: Over time, the headphone jack is likely to gather dust and other particles. The accumulation could make it more difficult or impossible for the phone and adapter to transmit audio.
- Software Issues: Issues with the phone’s operating system can lead to a variety of issues, such as the incapacity to utilize the headphone jack.
- Audio Output Settings: Unexpected behavior may result from setting the audio output parameters on the adapter incorrectly. The phone’s default option, which plays sound through the speaker system rather than the headphone connector, is the cause of this.
- Compatibility Issues: Regrettably, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are incompatible with all headphone jack adapters. Using unauthorized or inappropriate adapters may result in connectivity issues.
- Third-Party Apps: Occasionally, the operation of the headphone jack may be hampered by third-party apps that change audio settings or behavior.
- System updates: Although they can alleviate certain problems, they can also make others arise. This makes them a two-edged sword. Some of your headphones or adapters may stop working with the jack due to obsolete software or a system update.
- Corrosion: In damp environments, adapters are prone to corrosion, which might impair their functionality. One helpful item for preventing this problem and cleaning connectors is isopropyl alcohol.
- App conflicts: Some apps can affect how well the headphone jack works, particularly those that are equalizers or audio-related.
14 Fixes For Pixel 8 and 8 Pro Headphone Jack / Adapter Not Working Issue
We can begin troubleshooting the problem now that we know what’s causing it. To make sure there are no problems with the adapter itself, we will begin by following the fundamental procedures. After that, we’ll address certain software issues. In order to properly resolve the issue, make sure you try all of the remedies.
Fix 1: Buy an Official Adapter From Google
If you are using the official USB-C headphone adapter from Google, you can bypass the headphone jack altogether. Choose the official adapter if reliability and functionality are your top priorities.
When you use official Google accessories, connectivity issues are less likely to occur. To maximize your headphones’ performance, Google offers a headphone jack converter for sale. An official USB-C to 3.5mm headphone adaptor is available from the Google Store.
Fix 2: Check the Adapter and Cable
Check the adapter and cable first if the headphone jack adapter on your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro is still not working. This repair is essential because wear and tear or physical damage are frequent reasons why connections malfunction.
Examine the headphone jack and adapter connector for any bent or broken pins. You can have problems connecting to your phone if there are any bent pins on your adapter.
Verify that there are no loose or unstable connectors on the wires or the adapter. Look for fraying or exposed wires in the cable. You might need to purchase new cables if your connectivity issues are caused by broken ones.
Fix 3: Clean the Jack
The headphone jack not working is also frequently caused by dust accumulating inside the jack. If the adapter and cable need to be cleaned, all you have to do is look at them. Over time, dust and debris might gather and impede the connection. To clean the contacts, use a soft brush or compressed air.
Fix 4: Check Audio Output Settings
Erroneous program settings can occasionally be the root of the problem. The audio output setting is one of these settings. Verify that your headphones are connected to the audio output. Make sure your phone is set to use the headphone jack to play music rather than the built-in speakers.
The headphone jack adapter might not be functioning because of a straightforward adjustment to these settings. To modify the audio output, take the following actions:
- To access the Quick Settings window, swipe downward.
- Verify that you are using your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro to play any content.
- In the upper right corner of the music playback notification, tap the small pill.
- Make sure the audio output is set to your headphones.
Fix 5: Restart Your Phone
Restarting your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro might resolve the problem. This easy patch can address a variety of software problems, not just the headphone jack adaptor issue. If restarting your phone fixes momentary problems and refreshes the system, there could be no need for extensive troubleshooting. In order to restart your phone, follow these steps:
- Up until the Power Off menu appears, simultaneously press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons.
- Press Restart when the Power Off menu opens.
Fix 6: Check for Software Updates
Installing the most recent phone software update need to be your first priority. Google fixes issues and enhances compatibility through updates. If your headphones or headphone jack adaptor is acting strangely, try updating the software. Take the actions listed below:
- Launch the Settings application.
- After swiping down, select System.
- Select Software Update after that.
- In the lower right corner of the screen, tap the check for updates button.
- Next, select “Download & install.” Your phone is probably up to date if you don’t see this option.
- Press Restart when the update has been installed.
Updates recently released often include improvements and bug fixes that could offer some sort of resolution. Regularly checking for and installing these updates is essential to maintaining the proper operation of your device.
Fix 7: Reset All Settings
Sometimes the issues we confront demand a broader global response. Your best bet might be to restore your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro settings back to default if the issue still exists after trying different configurations. With this reset, all of your personal data will be intact and the device will be returned to its factory settings. Take the actions listed below:
- Launch the Settings application.
- After swiping down, select System.
- After that, tap Reset choices.
- Press the Reset app preferences button.
- After that, press Reset settings.
- To continue, enter the pattern, PIN, or password for your lock screen.
- Lastly, press Reset settings once again.
- Verify whether the problem has been fixed.
Fix 8: Safe Mode Test
A excellent approach to check if the adapter is working is to put your phone in Safe Mode. To determine whether a third-party software is the cause of the issue, try the adapter’s capabilities in Safe Mode. In this instance, a malicious third-party program might be at blame. Remove any dubious programs to find out which one, if any, is the problem. To do the safe mode test, adhere to these steps:
- Up until the Power Off menu appears, simultaneously press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons.
- Tap and hold the Power Off option when the Power Off menu opens.
- Press and hold Safe Mode to verify.
- After entering Safe Mode, make sure the headphone jack is operational.
- If the problem is fixed, a third-party program is the root of the problem. If not, there is another problem.
- To get out of Safe Mode, restart your phone now.
- Uninstall any shady or malicious apps that can be the source of the problem after the restart.
- If removing a particular app fixes the problem, it is the offender.
Fix 9: Try Different Headphones
It’s also conceivable that the problem is with the headphones themselves, rather than the converter. To assist identify whether the issue is with the headphones or the adapter, try a different pair of headphones.
The old headphones may be the problem if the new ones function with the adaptor. To resolve this issue, either replace your headphones or check the original headphones for physical damage. Ensure that the adapter’s headphone jack is inserted correctly.
Fix 10: Test Adapter on Another Device
Try using the adaptor with a different device if the problem continues. Should the adapter function flawlessly on another device but not on your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, the issue most likely lies with your device instead of the adapter. By performing this test, we can rule out a hardware problem with the adapter.
If the adapter functions properly on another device, your device is broken and the adapter is not the problem. Should the adapter not function on an additional device as well, it is defective and requires replacement.
Fix 11: Check for Physical Damage
Should the headphone jack adapter still not function, it may be damaged and require replacement. Verify that your headphones’ jack, adaptor, and cord are spotless and clean. Look for items like bent pins, disconnected connectors, and frayed wires. Such losses are typically irreparable, thus it is best to purchase a new one.
Fix 12: Factory Reset (Optional)
Try returning your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro to factory settings if nothing else works. But take caution—doing so will remove all data from your device entirely. Any software-related problems should be resolved and your phone will be restored to its factory settings after a factory reset. Make sure you have the most recent backup of your data before continuing. Take the actions listed below:
- Ensure that the data on your device is backed up.
- Launch the Settings application.
- After swiping down, select System.
- After that, tap Reset choices.
- Press the “Erase all data (factory reset)” button.
- Then, press the bottom right-hand button to erase all data.
- To continue, enter the pattern, PIN, or password for your lock screen.
- Lastly, press Reset once again.
- Depending on how much data you want to remove off your Pixel, this could take some time.
- After configuring your device, see if the problem has been fixed.
Fix 13: Contact Google Support
You should get in touch with Google support if you’ve exhausted all other options. They’ll be able to tell you details unique to your gadget. If your product is still covered by warranty, they should assist you with replacement or repair choices and let you know about any known problems and how to fix them.
Fix 14: Consider Wireless Alternatives
Consider going wireless if the headphone jack adaptor is still not functioning. Bluetooth earphones or headphones are a reliable and easy replacement for the 3.5 mm headphone socket. You might be able to enjoy flawless audio on your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro with this approach, saving you the trouble of carrying around an adapter. Nevertheless, compared to your wired headphones, the latency might be greater.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where there is no headphone jack on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro?
Google removed the headphone jack from its Pixel devices to make room for improved functionality and appearance. Although there have been differing opinions over Google’s choice to remove the headphone port, the firm has made it easy for users to keep using their wired headphones by providing a USB-C to 3.5mm adaptor.
Do third-party headphone jack adapters work with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro?
While third-party adapters can also function, the most secure option for your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro is the official Google USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. You can completely trust that an official Google adapter will work flawlessly on your device. It’s crucial to keep in mind that external adapters can differ significantly in terms of compatibility and quality.
Why is my adapter not working with certain headphones, even though it’s an official Google adapter?
It’s possible that your headphones are incompatible with the approved Google adaptor. This is because there are many different TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ting-Sleeve) headphone configurations available. Verify that the adapter is TRRS-compatible before contacting Google’s support staff if issues continue.
My headphone jack adapter worked perfectly before, but now it’s not. What could be the issue?
If you update your operating system, install new applications, or experience even minor hardware problems, the adapter may stop working. Try resetting your phone, checking your audio settings, and cleaning the headphone jack if your headphones suddenly stop working. If none of these solutions work, you might need to get in touch with Google for support or return your phone to its original configuration.
Are there any alternatives to using a headphone jack adapter with my Pixel 8 or 8 Pro?
An easy substitute for corded headphones are wireless Bluetooth earphones or headphones. With the help of these wireless methods, audio can be transmitted without a headphone connector. These are worth the price even though they can be a little pricey.
How to check the authenticity of my headphone jack adapter?
Every Google-verified adapter is authentic and comes in the same packaging. Check the box for a serial number, QR code, or other proof of the product’s legitimacy. Stay with the official retailers to prevent inadvertently buying a fake adapter.
Final Words
That’s how to solve the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro adapter not working. We hope that these fixes have enabled you to resolve the problem and resume using your wired headphones for listening. Make sure to get in touch with the Google Support team if the problem continues. If the problem has been fixed, do let us know in the space provided for comments below. Thank you for staying to the very end!
