Rumors are circulating 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, confirming a widespread rumor.

TrendForce notes that iPhone 12 models will be more expensive for Apple to produce because of 5G support, so removing these accessories out of the box will be one way 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 the iPhone 12 lineup has similar prices to the iPhone 11 lineup, including 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. States.

Apple would probably point out 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 less emissions from both production and transportation. From a business perspective, the move would likely also increase AirPods sales.

Apple is still planning to put a Lightning to USB-C cable in the box with its upcoming iPhones, according to Barclays analyst Blayne Curtis.

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