Rumors Persist About Apple Selling iPhone 12 Models Without a Charger or EarPods in the Box

Apple has decided to sell its upcoming iPhone 12 models without a few accessories such as a power adapter and wired EarPods, according to Taiwanese research firm TrendForce, corroborating a widespread rumor.

iphone 11 pro charger
TrendForce notes that iPhone 12 models will be more expensive for Apple to manufacture due to 5G support, so removing these accessories from the box will be one way that the company reduces costs. In turn, Apple plans to introduce a new 20W fast charger for iPhone 12 models that will be sold separately, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Kuo said that the iPhone 12 lineup will have similar pricing as the iPhone 11 lineup, which includes the iPhone 11 starting at $699, the iPhone 11 Pro starting at $999, and the iPhone 11 Pro Max starting at $1,099 in the United States.

Apple would likely tout the environmental benefits of shipping iPhone 12 models without a charger or EarPods, as such a move could result in slimmer packaging, less waste, and reduced emissions from both manufacturing and transportation. From a business perspective, the move would likely also increase AirPods sales.

Apple does still plan to include a Lightning to USB-C cable in the box with its upcoming iPhones, according to Barclays analyst Blayne Curtis.

While new iPhones usually begin shipping in late September, Apple recently indicated that supply will be available "a few weeks later" this year. According to leaker Jon Prosser, Apple plans to introduce new Apple Watch and iPad models via press release in September, followed by new iPhones at a (presumably virtual) event in October.

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Top Rated Comments

topdrawer Avatar
66 months ago
they have to make profit somewhere. 30 percent from app sales just isn't keeping the lights on.
Score: 45 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Red Viking Avatar
66 months ago
If they're worried about waste, why don't they provide a code so you can redeem a charger or earbuds at their stores if you want them.
Score: 34 Votes (Like | Disagree)
jonnysods Avatar
66 months ago
Pretty greasy move if you ask me. I doubt Apple will deduct the prices of those accessories from the handset prices.
Score: 33 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Red Viking Avatar
66 months ago
This is how they'll get to $3 trillion.
Score: 31 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Craptastic Avatar
66 months ago
I’m here for the comments from people complaining who probably own various chargers and don’t use EarPods.
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Nicole1980 Avatar
66 months ago

Regarding the iPhone 12 Release Dates, AAPL needs to know what the first-weekend sales are for ALL of its iPhone 12 models BEFORE its next Quarterly Earnings Release !

That's the Gating Factor !

Look at the XR release date relative to when AAPL had its relevant Quarterly Earnings Release !

And, most-importantly, notice what AAPL said at that Earnings Release !!

NOT Rocket Science, most do NOT do their Homework !
What on earth are you even talking about?
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)