Recent iPhone 12 rumors suggest that Apple may ship its upcoming smartphone series with a new packaging configuration. The new devices may not come with previously staple accessories, such as a set of EarPods and a charging plug, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. If accurate the devices may include only a Lightning to USB-C cable in the box.
The change may be in accordance with Apple’s impending introduction of its first family of 5G iPhones. Pundits believe the smartphones could be pricey enough that Apple may make usual in-box accessories sold separately to offset the cost.
Other recent leaks suggest Apple plans to release a 20W USB-C adapter, which may replace the brand’s current 18W and 5W chargers completely. While the price of the accessory is not yet known, many have noted that the 5W power adapter sells for $19 and the 18W power adapter for $29. The 20W is expected to be not much different from the 18W, outside of a little fast charging prowess. This could make it slightly more expensive. Or, if Apple gets rid of the 18W charger, perhaps the 20W plug would sell for $29.
Price rumors suggest that a 4G iPhone 12 model could sell for as low as $549. However, there is also word that an upcoming cost-effective 2020 iPhone SE may also sell later in the year without a charger. If so it is likely this iPhone 12 model may similarly sell with no major accessories.
The 5G iPhone 12 may start at $649 or $749 depending on 5.4-inch or 6.1-inch display sizes, while the 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Pro may start at $999, and the 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max at $1,099. While consumers should be accustomed to paying a pretty penny for the highest-end iPhones by now, current financial climates could make 5G devices a tough sell.
Apple could be hoping that those pursuing a model from the new line are most likely repeat customers who already have old chargers on hand. Still, It does seem odd that Apple would decide to release a device with no charging accessories when 5G is known to be a battery draining feature. Fans may not get confirmed details until October as reports suggest the iPhone 12 series suffer from production delays due to the current pandemic. The device is expected to go into production next month when previous devices went into production in May.
In addition to recent reports, there is a new concept video circulating, giving an idea of what the iPhone 12 might look like based on leaks and rumors. There may be at least four iPhone 12 models, including a standard iPhone 12 in 5.4-inch and 6.1-inch versions, a 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Pro, and a 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max. The devices are all expected to feature OLED displays, the A14 chip, and 5G connectivity.
Rumors also suggest a dual-lens rear camera set up for the standard iPhone 12 models and a triple-lens camera set up for the Pro/Max models, with a LiDAR Scanner for depth photography and other imaging improvements.
