Every port increases the wiring complexity on and size of the mainboard, as well as the bill of materials.
It's probably minuscule for something like 3.5mm audio (even though analog noise on the board might be a concern), and the computer already needs a DAC/ADC for its built-in speakers and microphone, but when in doubt, I'd rather take a port that I can convert to another using a cheap adapter than a fixed-purpose one I never use.
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Why not both? It’s not like there’s a limit to the number of ports a computer can have.
Every port increases the wiring complexity on and size of the mainboard, as well as the bill of materials.
It's probably minuscule for something like 3.5mm audio (even though analog noise on the board might be a concern), and the computer already needs a DAC/ADC for its built-in speakers and microphone, but when in doubt, I'd rather take a port that I can convert to another using a cheap adapter than a fixed-purpose one I never use.
Apple's laptops are decently priced. I’m sure they can afford a 3.5mm jack.
My guess is they’ll ditch it if/when they make a water proof laptop. No ports at all, induction charging only. Johny Ives's dream after retirement.