During the October 13 ‘Hi, Speed’ event, Apple released its first 5G phone, joining the race along with major competitors like Samsung and Google. The iPhone 12 includes a lot of attention-grabbing features, like the A14 bionic chip, Ceramic Shield glass to prevent scratches and damage, and a dual camera system that offers Night mode. Yet the iPhone 12 is also missing a few things customers may have come to expect, including a power adapter and EarPods.
The first iPhone was released in January of 2007. There have been multiple versions since then, including the second-generation iPhone SE, which came out earlier this year and serves as Apple’s low-budget option. At the ‘Hi, Speed’ virtual event, Apple introduced the iPhone 12 series, which also includes the iPhone 12 mini and two Pro models, along with the MagSafe line of chargers and accessories. It also unveiled HomePod mini, the company's new smart speaker that can also act as an intercom, allowing users who have multiple Apple devices to broadcast a message from one device to others.
While Apple used the event to make clear what consumers do get with the iPhone 12, it is also now clear what's not included with the new phones. The iPhone 12 series does not include a power adapter or EarPods in the box. On the company's website, Apple urges customers to simply use the same power adapter or EarPods they were already using with their current phone -- or they can buy these accessories separately. EarPods are available under the Accessories tab on the Apple website for $19.99. Power adapters are also sold under Accessories, including the 20W USB-C Power Adapter for $19. Customers can also choose to go wireless with options like the iPhone Lightning Dock -- or, of course, the new MagSafe Charger, which is magnetic and attaches right to the back of the phone.
Why There's No Power Adapter Or EarPods
As to why Apple isn’t including either accessory, it has one big reason -- the environment. Apple is aiming to manufacture everything with clean energy and a reduced carbon footprint. This means it wants to use renewable resources, like solar power, to enable the company to create its products, which will then reduce the amount of carbon put into the air during the manufacturing process. The company is currently carbon neutral, and its goal is that by 2030, all its products will be, too. By not including the power adapter or the EarPods in the box, Apple is encouraging customers to keep using the accessories they already have, thereby reducing its carbon emissions generated by manufacturing, transporting, and shipping the additional accessories.
What is included in the box is the iPhone itself, along with the USB-C to lightning cable. It’s very likely that, along with a concern for the environment, Apple is also using this opportunity to push its new MagSafe line of phone cases and wireless chargers. Still, it seems like it would be just as easy -- not to mention cheaper for the customer -- if they just use their old power adapter and EarPods. Even if they choose to trade-in their old device, Apple doesn’t require accessories to be included, although it will simply recycle those items if the customer does choose to send them in.
Source: Apple