When purchasing a new iPhone, customers often wonder if a charger is included. Apple, the maker of the iPhone, has made significant changes to its packaging in recent years. Since the release of the iPhone 12 in 2020, Apple has stopped including wall chargers in the box. iPhones now come with only a USB-C to Lightning cable, meaning buyers need to either use existing chargers or purchase a new charger separately.
The decision to remove the charger aligns with Apple’s environmental strategy to reduce e-waste. It also follows a larger trend in the technology industry to streamline packaging and reduce unnecessary accessories. To charge an iPhone, users can opt for a USB-C power adapter or explore wireless charging options like MagSafe and Qi-compatible chargers.
Do iPhones Come with Chargers?
No — new iPhones no longer include a charging block (power adapter) in the box.
Since the launch of the iPhone 12 in 2020, Apple stopped including both the wall charger and EarPods.
Instead, you’ll get:
- iPhone handset
- USB‑C to Lightning cable (or USB‑C to USB‑C cable for iPhone 15 and newer)
- Documentation & SIM eject tool (in some regions)
📅 Why Did Apple Remove the Charger?
Apple’s main reasons:
- Environmental Impact – Reducing e‑waste by encouraging people to reuse their existing chargers (source: Apple Community).
- Smaller Packaging – More units per shipment, lowering carbon emissions.
- Most Users Already Have Chargers – Millions of Apple chargers are already in circulation.
🔌 What Charger Do You Need?
- iPhone 12–14 → USB‑C to Lightning cable included → Use with a 20W or higher USB‑C power adapter for fast charging.
- iPhone 15 and newer → USB‑C to USB‑C cable included → Use with a 20W or higher USB‑C power adapter (same as iPads and Macs)
⚡ Charging Options
- Reuse an Old Adapter – Works if it’s USB‑C and meets power requirements.
- Buy an Official Apple Adapter – 20W USB‑C Power Adapter from Apple.
- Use Third‑Party Certified Chargers – Look for MFi-certified to ensure safety and performance.
- Wireless Charging – All modern iPhones support MagSafe and Qi wireless charging.
💡 Tips Before You Buy
- If you have an older USB‑A charger, you’ll need a USB‑A to Lightning cable or a new USB‑C charger.
- For fastest charging, use USB‑C PD (Power Delivery) adapters.
- Avoid very cheap, uncertified chargers — they can damage your phone.
✅ Bottom line: New iPhones don’t come with a charger, so you’ll need to use an existing one or purchase a compatible USB‑C adapter. This change is permanent and part of Apple’s environmental strategy.
Key Takeaways
- Apple no longer includes chargers with new iPhones, starting with the iPhone 12.
- iPhones come with a USB-C to Lightning cable, and users have options for both wired and wireless charging.
- Removing chargers from iPhone boxes is part of Apple’s effort to reduce environmental impact and align with industry packaging trends.
IPhone Charger Inclusions & Compatibility
When you buy an iPhone, know which charger and accessories are included and compatible. The details vary by model and release year.
Current Models and Charger Availability
The latest iPhones, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, come without a charger in the box. Apple’s decision to exclude chargers started with the iPhone 12 series. Those looking to buy an iPhone will find only a USB-C to Lightning cable included. If you need a charger, you must purchase it separately. The iPhone SE and iPhone 11 followed this trend as well.
Charging Technologies and Accessories
Apple iPhones support various charging technologies. Fast charging works with a 20W adapter or higher. For wireless charging, iPhones use Qi technology, effective at 7.5W. Apple’s MagSafe accessories offer an alternative by magnetically attaching to the back of the iPhone for a secure wireless charging connection. Chargers for iPads and other smartphones with USB-C can often charge an iPhone as well.
Comparative Analysis of iPhone Models
iPhone 14 and earlier models may include different charging capabilities.
| Model | Charger Included | Fast Charging | MagSafe | Lightning Cable | USB-C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 & newer | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 11 & SE | No | Partially1 | No | Yes | No |
| iPhone 8 to 10 | Yes2 | No | No | Yes | No |
It’s essential to check if fast charging or MagSafe is important for your daily use when choosing an iPhone. Accessories like AirPods and wireless chargers may influence your decision on which model to select.
Environmental Impact and Industry Trends
In recent years, the phone industry has seen a shift in environmental policy, with Apple paving the way. This section examines the effects of these changes and the variety of choices consumers now have in the market.
Apple’s Environmental Commitment
Apple aims to be completely carbon neutral by 2030. Part of this effort included removing the charger and wired earbuds from iPhone packaging, starting with the iPhone 12. They claimed this move could reduce e-waste and the environmental toll of excess accessories. Apple asserts that there are already many millions of their devices and chargers in use, outlining the potential for cutting down on additional waste.
Market Response and Consumer Options
The market has reacted to Apple’s eco-friendly packaging. Third-party manufacturers such as Anker and Belkin offer alternative charging solutions. These options are widely available on platforms like Amazon. Additionally, customers can still find iPhone deals that bundle chargers and other accessories. However, documentation and packaging for newer models like the Apple iPhone 14 continue the trend of excluding chargers in the box, potentially impacting the production of e-waste. The inclusion of only a USB-C-to-Lightning cable with recent iPhones nudges the market towards a broader use of USB-C ports, hinting at a possible industry-wide shift.
