Why can't one select between earbuds and internal speakers?

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Why can't one select between earbuds and internal speakers

When earphones are connected to an iMac via USB, either the internal speakers and earphones are selectable ... however, when earbuds (or any headphone type device) is connected directly to the rear of the iMac, the internal speaker selection is removed and replaced with headphones, i.e., you can't leave the headphones/earbuds connected and then select between them and the iMac's internal speakers ... why not?

Tks

Harry Carl
 

SwitchBeach

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Sep 2, 2013
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Re: Why can't one select between earbuds and internal speakers

Yes, as noted, only Apple can answer the "why" question.

However, on most devices (phone, computers, etc), something being plugged into the headphone jack will override all other audio outputs. This is by design.