Apple stopped including charging bricks in iPhone boxes starting with the iPhone 12 in 2020, citing environmental reasons — fewer chargers manufactured and shipped, the company argued, meant less electronic waste overall since most customers already owned compatible chargers. The move saved Apple on packaging and shipping costs too, though the company framed it primarily around sustainability.
The decision faced regulatory pushback in multiple countries, including legal challenges in Brazil and scrutiny elsewhere, with critics arguing the move shifted costs onto consumers who needed to buy chargers separately. Despite the controversy, the practice has become standard across most of the smartphone industry, with competitors following Apple’s lead.
Quick Facts
| Policy | No charging brick included with new iPhones |
|---|---|
| Started | 2020, with iPhone 12 |
| Stated Reason | Environmental — reduce e-waste from redundant chargers |
| Regulatory Response | Legal challenges in Brazil; scrutiny in other markets |
| Company | Apple Inc. |
Key Points
- Apple’s charger removal predated similar moves by Samsung and other manufacturers, who largely followed suit within a couple of years.
- Regulatory challenges, including in Brazil, centered on consumer protection concerns rather than disputing the environmental rationale outright.
- For the complete picture of Apple’s ownership and leadership today, see the full Apple ownership breakdown.
FAQ
Why did Apple stop including chargers with iPhones?
Apple cited environmental reasons, arguing that most customers already owned compatible chargers and that shipping fewer bricks would reduce electronic waste.
Did other phone makers follow Apple’s lead?
Yes. Samsung and other major smartphone manufacturers eventually adopted similar no-charger-included policies.
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For another look back at Apple’s recent history, see when Apple stock dropped 15% below its all-time high.
