Apple's one-word explanation for why it killed the headphone jack: 'Courage'

As expected, the new iPhone doesn't have a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

That means countless headphones, speakers, and other accessories will require a Lightning adapter to work with the iPhone 7.

You'd think that Apple would have a strong, multifaceted argument for getting rid of such a widely accepted and standardized port.

The company's main explanation is actually one word: "courage."

"Now, some people have asked why we would remove the analog headphone jack from the iPhone," Apple executive Phil Schiller said during the iPhone 7's debut on Wednesday. "The reason to move on really comes down to one word: courage. The courage to move on and do something new that betters all of us."

IPHONE 7

Iphone 7 is here!

Apple on Wednesday unveiled the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. In the process, it announced that the new phones would be available in a new "Jet Black" colorway.

At first blush, it looks good! It's one of those things that has no practical benefit whatsoever — in fact, it costs more — but creates a special sort of desire in gadget lovers anyway. Everyone wants a nice thing.

If all of the iPhone hype has you interested, though, you should know that there are a few drawbacks to buying into the glossy new color.

As spotted by The Daily Dot, Apple notes at the bottom of the iPhone 7's product page that the Jet Black finish "may show fine micro-abrasions with use." In other words, it'll scratch more easily. 

Beyond that, reporters getting hands-on time at Apple's event, including Business Insider's own Steve Kovach, have noted that the finish is particularly prone to fingerprints as well.

Now, this shouldn't be surprising. The iPhone 7 would be far from the first smartphone with a glossy finish to pick up smudges and scratches without effort. And again, it looks nice.

But the fact that Apple outright says that those worried about accidental markings invest in a case suggests that they might be an annoyance. If you're paying extra to buy something for looks, chances are you don't want to cover it up.

Nevertheless, we'll be sure to let you know how severe the problem is in the coming days. If it doesn't work out, it's worth noting that there's a new, non-glossy black iPhone as well.