South Korean tech and electronics giant Samsung may not equip smartphones with chargers in boxes beginning 2021. A few days ago, the industry heard several claims that Apple might ditch in-box chargers and wired EarPods on the box of iPhone 12 series. A new report claims that its rival Samsung may follow this strategy and might start as early as next year.
Samsung Dropping In-Box Charger On Future Smartphones
The latest information about this move from Samsung comes from Korea publication ETNews. According to the site, the Korean tech company decided to drop the charger because people already own chargers and also to minimize costs. It is possible that without the in-box charger, consumers could enjoy lower retail prices of future Samsung smartphones.
The company has not yet confirmed the claim, but if it's true, Samsung may be reconsidering the cost of its smartphones. Over the past decade, smartphone prices have spiked courtesy of higher hardware prices. Right now, Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra retails at $1,499 while other smartphone makers are selling their flagship handsets beyond the $1000 price barrier.
Possible Benefits Of Dropping In-Box Charger
Dropping the in-box charger could be beneficial to users with legacy power adapters from their previous smartphones. While it is true, to some users, the problem is with new smartphone users who are just planning to purchase or to change brand. On the enterprising perspective, this move could mean transforming chargers into a cash-generating accessory.
Samsung was previously criticized because of its $50 45W fast charger for the Galaxy S20 Ultra. The company packed the unit with a 25W charger in its packaging. Without the in-box charger, companies could standardize charging excessive fees for accessories.
There is a chance that even without the in-box charger, smartphones would still retail at higher prices. With this strategy potentially happening soon, consumers will have to purchase expensive smartphones and more expensive power adapters. It is worth mentioning that this move was first reported to be Apple's plan for its flagship iPhone 12 series.
TFI Securities Analyst and Apple tipster Ming-Chi Kuo earlier claimed that the Cupertino-based tech giant might phase out the 5W and 18W chargers currently available with iPhones. Apple would reportedly offer a new 20W fast charger, but it would be sold separately, the analyst added. This alleged plan of Apple and Samsung has a positive effect on the environment.
Smartphone makers could make smaller packaging, which could have a substantial effect on the environment in the long run. It could also cut the number of unused chargers, which are typically thrown away because people have a lot scattered at home.
