iPadOS 18.5 audio issue with USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter

Today: on my iPad air 3rd gen, iPhone 11Pro and iPhone 16Pro.

ALL suddenly have issues with music and my wired headphones.

I even tried a new Sennheizer set, restarted the devices, used devices wit lightning ànd usb-C to jack, switched off Blue Tooth.

Problem remains. As soon as volume goes up, sound disappears and it starts cracking. All this started after updating to IOS 18.5 and iPadOS 18.5. Three devices, tried 2 sets op headphones, lightning and USB-C, all have the same issue. I’d appreciate advice or a solution. Thanks!

Having just tested an Apple USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter with iPadOS 18.5, I'm unable to replicate your issue - although the test was performed with an iPad Pro M1.

Have you tested your Adapter and wired headphones with a different iPad?

If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
3. Press and hold the top button.
4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings

If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support

Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

I have either the same or similar issue. iPad regular 10th Gen. iOS 18.5. I was using Apple wired earbuds with USB-C end, watching videos and making music in Garage Band. I thought, maybe I’ll get a UsB-C adapter and use some nice over the ear wired headphones. Within a couple of days, any time the volume output was over a mid-point it would distort into crunchy noise, and would continue for a half-second or so even after pausing audio/video. Terrible sounding, like crumpling a bag of chips.

i tried to get info online, not much available other than speculation about the UsB-C adapter. But I tried other things before giving up on it—hard reset, turn volume up:down, check connection (perfectly clean), turn off Siri, etc.

So I got rid of the USB-C adapter, went back to the boring, flat Apple EarPods and the problem is gone. I was buying third party usb-C adapters (tried one off amazon, one from target) — I’m gonna try an Apple brand adapter and see if that’s the answer.

I have exactly the same issue (but with another model - iPad pro 12.9 4th Gen-). I tried cleaning the USB-C port and even restored the unit but nothing works. Did you fix it?

My iPad charges and transfers data (external hard drives), but anything related to music doesn’t work: audio interfaces, wired headphones, midi controllers, etc.

I have the same issue: No audio through 3.5 jack on usb-C ipad pro and iphone 11 pro both 2017 but only after 18.5 update - was working fine before - get crackling and a constant "blip" but absolutlely no audio. However I also have an iphone 15 pro with usb c and it's working fine. I suspect a software driver issue with the iOs 18.5 update as everypne here appears agrees so APPLE get a wiggle on and provide an answer/update 19? not generic dribble!

I went to an Apple store and they told me that there is no way they can tell if this a hardware or a software issue. So they end up suggesting that I should buy another iPad (since I don't have a warranty)... I acted like I was surprised (I knew these guys don't know anything at a technical level, but I went to an apple store anyways, just in case).

All sorted after contact Apple Store.

you came back to tell us you got it fixed but not how?! 😒

please!

UPDATE: the force restart seems to have fixed it (but i've only tested it once)

I went to an Apple Store. It is nearby. No idea of how or of what. I wasn’t going to spend any more time on it myself. Support in the shop (or online), it is the best option.

i bought an Apple brand usb-c adapter and so far (one day) it seems to have solved the issue.

I was having the same problem. I did a forced restart on my iPhone and it now works with the USB-C cable in my car.