Apple’s latest budget iPhone, the iPhone 16e, has officially arrived. Announced at the highly anticipated February launch event, Apple unveiled a host of impressive features for this affordable alternative, making it a more compelling option than ever before. The iPhone 16e boasts a cutting-edge processor, integration with Apple Intelligence, and the inclusion of Face ID authentication, all while maintaining a price point below $600. These upgrades position the device closer to Apple’s flagship models, but one lingering question remains: Does the iPhone 16e come with a charger in the box?
For years, Apple has refrained from including chargers with its iPhones and Apple Watches. Many customers continue to hope that Apple will reconsider this decision with each new device release. Given the iPhone 16e’s budget-friendly nature, some users wonder if Apple has adjusted its accessory policy to offer a more comprehensive package. Below, we delve into the charger situation for the iPhone 16e, Apple’s rationale for excluding chargers, and the best alternatives for charging the device efficiently.
Does the iPhone 16e Come with a Charger?
The simple answer is no—the iPhone 16e does not come with a charger in the box. However, Apple does provide a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, aligning with the company’s transition to universal USB-C charging standards. This change was first introduced with the iPhone 15 lineup, marking Apple’s departure from its proprietary Lightning connectors. Consequently, users upgrading from older iPhones that relied on Lightning cables will need to purchase a USB-C-compatible wall charger separately if they do not already own one.
Although Apple has removed the wall charger from its packaging, the iPhone 16e supports various charging methods. Users can charge their devices through a USB-C wall adapter, a charging port on a laptop or desktop, or a portable power bank. Additionally, the iPhone 16e is compatible with wireless charging and Qi-certified chargers, making it easier for users to find charging solutions that suit their needs.
For those seeking first-party accessories, Apple sells its official USB-C power adapters online and in retail stores. However, third-party brands such as Anker, Belkin, and Satechi also offer high-quality alternatives, often at a lower price point than Apple’s official chargers.
Why Doesn’t Apple Include a Charger with iPhones?
Apple’s Sustainability Initiative
Apple first discontinued the inclusion of wall chargers with its iPhones in 2020, citing environmental concerns as the primary reason. The company framed this move as part of its broader sustainability initiative, which aims to reduce electronic waste and lower carbon emissions. By eliminating wall chargers from its packaging, Apple can ship more devices per load, thereby decreasing the number of shipments and ultimately reducing its carbon footprint.
The environmental rationale, however, has faced criticism. Some skeptics argue that Apple’s decision was financially motivated, as selling chargers separately increases accessory sales. While Apple asserts that excluding chargers helps lower global e-waste, many consumers view the move as an added inconvenience and additional expense—especially for those who do not already own a USB-C power adapter.
Legal Challenges and Regulatory Pressure
Apple’s decision to exclude chargers has also sparked legal challenges. In 2022, Brazil’s Justice Ministry ordered Apple to cease selling iPhones without a charger, arguing that the practice was harmful to consumers and violated consumer protection laws. The ruling forced Apple to provide chargers with iPhones sold in Brazil, though the company has maintained its charger-free policy in most other regions.
Other countries have also examined the practice, but as of now, Apple continues to sell iPhones without a charger in most markets worldwide. While some consumers appreciate Apple’s commitment to sustainability, others feel that the exclusion of a necessary accessory is an unwelcome cost-cutting measure.
Read also: 200-Year Evolution: The Fascinating History of Elevators
How to Charge the iPhone 16e
Given that the iPhone 16e does not include a wall charger, users must either rely on an existing USB-C adapter or purchase a new one. Below are some of the most efficient ways to charge the iPhone 16e:
1. Using a USB-C Wall Charger
The fastest and most reliable way to charge the iPhone 16e is with a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) wall adapter. Since the iPhone 16e supports USB-C, it can take advantage of fast-charging technology, which allows the device to reach 50% battery in approximately 30 minutes when using a 20W or higher adapter.
Recommended USB-C Wall Chargers:
- Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter – Apple’s official fast charger, optimized for iPhones.
- Anker Nano 3 (30W) – Compact and powerful, supporting high-speed charging.
- Belkin BoostCharge 25W – A reliable third-party alternative with durable design.
2. Wireless Charging with MagSafe and Qi
For those who prefer a cable-free charging experience, the iPhone 16e is compatible with Qi-certified wireless chargers. Additionally, Apple’s MagSafe technology offers an enhanced wireless charging experience with magnetic alignment for faster and more efficient charging.
Recommended Wireless Chargers:
- Apple MagSafe Charger – Official first-party charger with 15W charging speed.
- Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe – Charges iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously.
- Belkin BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 – A sleek MagSafe-compatible wireless charging pad.
3. Charging via Laptop or Power Bank
For users on the go, charging via a laptop or portable power bank is a convenient option. With a USB-C to USB-C cable, users can charge their iPhone 16e directly from a MacBook, PC, or other USB-C-compatible devices.
Recommended Power Banks:
- Anker PowerCore 10000 PD Redux – Compact and capable of delivering fast charging.
- RAVPower 20000mAh Power Bank – High-capacity for multiple charges.
- Mophie Powerstation Plus – Integrated USB-C cable for convenience.
Conclusion
The iPhone 16e continues Apple’s recent trend of excluding chargers from its packaging. While the device ships with a USB-C cable, users must supply their own wall charger or opt for wireless charging alternatives. Apple justifies this decision as part of its sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and electronic waste. However, this policy has been met with mixed reactions, with some consumers seeing it as a necessary step toward environmental responsibility and others viewing it as an additional financial burden.
Despite the absence of an included charger, iPhone 16e users have numerous options for powering their devices, ranging from USB-C wall adapters and wireless charging stations to portable power banks. Whether purchasing an official Apple charger or a high-quality third-party alternative, consumers can find suitable solutions to keep their devices powered efficiently.
As Apple continues to refine its product lineup, it remains to be seen whether the company will reconsider its stance on including chargers in the future. For now, iPhone buyers should be prepared to invest in a separate charging solution if they do not already own a compatible adapter. In any case, the iPhone 16e’s features and affordability make it a compelling option for those seeking a budget-friendly entry into Apple’s ecosystem.
