Changes might be coming to Apple's Lightning connector, and they may affect the device's audio experience. New specifications for manufacturers were "quietly" introduced for Apple's Made-For-iPhone/iPad/iPod (MFi) program.

The specifications would enable Apple to create headphones that connect to the iOS device Lightning connector instead of the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack seen on countless device regardless of brand. According to 9to5Mac, Apple will release a software update to enable audio-input support for Lightning connectors on devices running on iOS 7.1 or later.

The new headphones that can be connected on the Lightning dock can apparently receive "lossless stereo 48kHz digital audio output" from Apple devices and send "mono 48kHz digital audio input." Microphone support is also expected with the software update.

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"Manufacturers will be able to take advantage of Apple Headphone Remote controls like Volume Up/Down/etc., as well as other buttons for launching specific apps such as iTunes Radio or initiating playback controls on iOS. In addition, the headphones can be made to work specifically with a companion iOS app and launch a specific app when connected to an iOS device," wrote 9to5Mac's Jordan Kahn.

A potential positive with the Lightning cable headphones is the elimination of costs related to the device's internal battery.

"It could also work the other way around by providing power to an Apple device from an internal battery or external power source," Kahn added. "That enables you to listen to music and also use a passthrough setup so you could charge the device simultaneously, much like you can with an audio dock that uses a Lightning connector."

The Verge's Chris Welch said the 3.5mm headphone jack might not be much space but with Apple's constant effort to slim their products, "you could argue that every millimeter counts."

Two types of Lightning headphones will reportedly be available. The first is considered the "Standard" due to using minimal components. The second is known as the "Advanced" Lightning headphones for allowing digital audio processing, noise cancellation, digital signal processor and a digital/analog converter.

The new Apple Lightning headphones could make their debut with the next generation Beats Electronics, which Apple acquired from Dr. Dre for $3 billion in May.

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For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com.

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