Speculations have arisen that Apple’s forthcoming iPhone 12 won’t include a power adapter and EarPods, unlike previous models in the series. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is striving to maintain the pricing of its upcoming smartphones by stripping away its components to compensate for the supplementary costs associated with 5G networking technology. By removing the power adaptor and EarPods, Apple could potentially consider downsizing the iPhone package to make it more economically friendly and substantially lower its shipping tariffs by being able to fit more phones into one consignment.

Ming-Chi Kuo also hinted that Apple is discontinuing production of its 5W and 18W power adaptors in favour of the new 20W model to accommodate the 5G augmentation which will consume more battery power. Apple’s new 20W power adaptor could potentially retail a bit higher than its predecessors since it can charge devices faster. Yet, Min-Chi Kuo further mentions that Apple’s upcoming 10.8-inch and 8.5-inch iPads will include the new 20W power adaptor.

Upon on release of the iPhone 12, Apple will be encouraging consumers to purchase the new 20W power adaptor as an optional accessory.

Despite Apple’s efforts in reducing production costs for the iPhone 12, we predict that the controversial move may incur a backlash from fans and potential buyers since they are now required to fork out extra cash for the accessories. Nevertheless, many iPhone users might not be too concerned about the removal, since they may have numerous chargers and earphones lying around the house that they can re-use. However, for those who don’t own a pair of EarPods, this is an excellent opportunity for Apple to up-sell its popular Airpods range.

The iPhone 12 will be Apple’s final instalment to employ a Lightning to USB- C cable before the company introduces a wireless connector in 2021. It is unclear whether the lightning to USB cable is going to still be included with the iPhone 12.

The Apple iPhone 12 is expected to launch in Autumn 2020 which will include four models; a smaller 5.4-inch screen, two 6.1 inch models and a new 6.7-inch size which is the new max model.