Compatible Adapters
Tested USB-C and Lightning to 3.5mm audio adapters
What You Need
IFE Bridge requires a USB-C or Lightning to 3.5mm audio adapter to connect to the IFE system's headphone jack. Below are adapters we've tested and confirmed working. Different adapters have different capabilities - some output line-level audio (quieter, needs gain boost), while others output mic-level (louder, plug-and-play).
Tested Adapters
| Image | Product Name | Status | Features & Capabilities | Link | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Sonos USB-C Line-in Adapter (SD-01) | ✓ Works |
|
Sonos Store | Requires Input Gain: Outputs line-level audio (~30dB quieter than mic-level). Use the Input Gain slider in IFE Bridge to boost 2-3x. Excellent audio quality once adjusted. |
 |
Apple USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter | ✓ Works |
|
Apple Store | Works out of the box with good volume levels. Most common and readily available option. Compatible with both USB-C iPhones and iPads. |
 |
Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter | ✓ Works |
|
Apple Store | For Lightning iPhones (iPhone 14 and earlier). Works identically to the USB-C version. Good audio quality and reliable connection. |
 |
mic
Biaze USB C Sound Card
|
✓ Works |
|
Amazon AU |
Works well for audio bridging. Enumerates as "AB13X USB Audio" when connected.
Important: Disable Siri to prevent accidental triggering during use. See "Preventing Siri Interruptions" below for instructions. |
 |
headset_mic
UGREEN CM722
P/N 25838 |
✓ Works |
|
Amazon AU |
Enumerates as "UGREEN CM722 USB Audio" when connected.
Needs TRRS Adapter: This device has a combined headphone/mic jack. You'll need a TRRS splitter (see "Understanding Audio Jacks" below). Bonus: Allows simultaneous charging of your phone while listening - perfect for long flights! |
Important Notes
Line-Level vs Mic-Level
Line-level adapters (like Sonos) output quieter audio but higher quality. Mic-level adapters output louder audio suitable for direct playback. IFE Bridge handles both with the Input Gain control.
Understanding Audio Jacks: TRRS vs TRS
If your adapter has a combined headphone/mic jack (TRRS), you'll need a splitter cable that breaks it out into:
- One plug for microphone (usually pink or red)
- One plug for headphones (usually green)
Examples of TRRS splitter cables
Check Your Adapter's Symbols
Most USB-C adapters are output only (for headphones). You need one that supports audio input (microphone). Check your adapter's symbols to see what it supports:
This adapter has a dedicated microphone input. Perfect for IFE Bridge!
This adapter has a combined headphone/mic jack (like iPhone earbuds).
This adapter is output only (speakers/headphones). It has no microphone input.
Lightning Devices: Need Lightning to USB Adapter
If you have an older iPhone with a Lightning port (iPhone 14 and earlier), you'll need a Lightning to USB adapter to connect USB audio adapters to your device.
Look for "Lightning to USB Camera Adapter" or "Lightning to USB 3" adapters. These often have a camera symbol on them (as shown in the photos above). Chain it: IFE headphone jack → 3.5mm cable → USB audio adapter → Lightning to USB adapter → iPhone.
Important: The adapter must support data transfer, not just power. Power-only Lightning adapters (like some charging adapters) won't work. Look for camera adapters or USB 3 adapters that explicitly support data.
Note: If you have a Lightning device, using the Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter (listed in the table above) is simpler and more reliable than this USB adapter chain.
Testing Before Your Flight
Always test your adapter before traveling. Connect it to any audio source (laptop, TV, etc.) and verify IFE Bridge shows "USB Input Connected" and you hear audio through your Bluetooth headphones.
Preventing Siri Interruptions
Some adapters may accidentally trigger Siri during use, interrupting your audio. For uninterrupted audio bridging, disable Siri features in iOS Settings.
⚠️ Why This Happens: iOS always gives priority to system features like Siri. Apps cannot programmatically disable Siri for security and privacy reasons.
settings_voice Disable "Hey Siri"
iOS 18 and later:
- Open Settings app
- Tap Apple Intelligence & Siri
- Tap Talk & Type Siri
- Turn OFF "Listen for" (or disable all triggers)
iOS 17 and earlier:
- Open Settings app
- Tap Siri & Search
- Turn OFF "Listen for Hey Siri"
power_settings_new Disable Button Activation
iOS 18 and later:
- Open Settings app
- Tap Apple Intelligence & Siri
- Tap Talk & Type Siri
- Turn OFF "Press Side Button" or "Press Action Button"
iOS 17 and earlier:
- Open Settings app
- Tap Siri & Search
- Turn OFF "Press Side Button for Siri"
💡 Ultimate Solution: For critical recordings where interruptions are unacceptable, enable Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb. This disables all potential interruptions.
Airplane Headphone Adapters
Some airlines use dual-prong or proprietary headphone jacks instead of standard 3.5mm. In these cases, you'll need an airplane headphone adapter (dual-prong to 3.5mm) in addition to your USB adapter.
These adapters are inexpensive (~$5-10) and widely available. Chain it: IFE dual-prong → airplane adapter → 3.5mm cable → USB adapter → iPhone.
Help Us Build the Database
Tested a New Adapter?
If you've tested an adapter not listed here, we'd love to hear about it! Share your experience through TestFlight feedback and include:
- Adapter brand and model
- Whether it worked (yes/no)
- Audio quality notes
- Whether you needed input gain adjustment
- Product link if available
Open TestFlight app → IFE Bridge → Send Beta Feedback
Ready to Try IFE Bridge?
Get an adapter, download the app, and enjoy wireless IFE audio on your next flight.
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