scope:

This Recommendation specifies electrical requirements and test methods for a multi-microphone headset or headphone (HP) interface used in digital mobile terminals. It is also applicable to terminals with a digital headset interface combined with an external adapter for an analogue (universal) headset interface. The combination is measured as one device.

The principle of this Recommendation is to ensure adequate compatibility between the digital mobile terminal and the universal and multi-microphone wired analogue headset or HP, and to provide better user experience. The universal multi-microphone headset or HP interface enables the separation of sales between digital mobile terminals and headsets or HPs. One benefit is that users are free to choose their favourite type of headset or HP in the market, which in the long run will reduce E-waste.

Furthermore, the universal interface can be used as the electric coupling design in hands-free systems and hearing aids for wider harmonization.

To provide instructions to manufacturers and encourage them to adopt the universal headset interface, the mechanical dimensions are shown in an appendix for at least configurations with five poles.

This Recommendation applies to digital mobile terminals with a physical analogue audio output and input interface that needs to support headsets with more than one microphone. Other similar information and communication technology equipment may also lie within the scope of this Recommendation.

This Recommendation does not apply to terminals designed solely for digital headset or HP usage.