The iPhone 12 Is Missing Two Important Components

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You can officially order your new iPhone 12, but it’ll be missing two things: Earphones and a wall charger.

Apple is trying to sell this as a feature, not a bug: They say they’re saving the environment with less packaging (except in France, where they have to include the earbuds). But some think this initiative will lead to more e-waste, as the included Lightning-to-USB-C cable won’t work with your older power brick so you’re gonna end up buying new products anyway.

We won’t get into the argument — our thought is that by not including the two items, Apple could keep the prices of the new iPhones at a modest $699+ — but instead offer you better solutions.

Go to Apple’s official store and pick up what you need, as those white earpods are now $10 cheaper and a 20W USB-C power adapter just launched at only $19.
Buy something better from another brand.

We’re gonna ignore the wireless charging options for now and pick two items that resemble the Apple products you’re used to.

If you want a USB-C charging brick, Anker’s 20W variation is tiny (50% smaller than the average 18W charger) but quick. It’s $20 now, but these tend to go on sale every other week. And a more robust, two-port version with a foldable plug is $26.

And those white earbuds? Amazon’s got the official Apple ones — both with the 3.5 plug (you’ll need an adapter) and the built-in Lightning connector at under $20, with free one-day shipping for Prime members.

But if you want a wired headset with a cool look, Marshall’s Mode EQ In-Ear Headphones offer a retro, black ‘n brass vibe with great sound. They’re currently 29% off, but you’ll want to use your savings on a 3.5mm-to-Lightning adapter.