Does the iPhone 16e include a charger in the box?

Apple has introduced its new low-cost iPhone model, the iPhone 16e, during an event in February. This device features a revamped processor, Apple Intelligence, and Face ID, offering an accessible option priced below $600. As this model resembles higher-end options more closely, the question arises whether it will include a charger in the box. The company has not included chargers with its iPhones and Apple Watches in recent years, leading consumers to wonder if this will be the year that changes.

Regarding whether the iPhone 16e will come with a charger, the answer is no; the package includes a USB-C cable but not a wall charger. Apple transitioned to this type of connection in the latest generation of its phones, meaning lightning cables will no longer be functional. Users will need to seek out a USB-C compatible charger, whether it’s a wall outlet, a charging port, or a portable charger. Additionally, the iPhone 16e is compatible with wireless charging and Qi chargers. Most USB-C chargers and wireless chargers should be compatible, including options from brands like Anker, Belkin, and Satechi. For those who prefer an Apple charger, the company offers them both in physical stores and online.

The reason Apple has stopped including chargers with its phones dates back to 2020, when this decision was made to reduce its carbon footprint. While some have criticized this policy as a tactic to force consumers to purchase additional accessories, Apple maintains that the measure allows for shipping more devices in a single shipment, which helps decrease carbon emissions. This policy has persisted in recent years, despite Brazil's Ministry of Justice ordering Apple to stop selling iPhones without a charger. However, some devices, such as the new iPad Air and iPad Pro, still include their wall chargers.

For those looking for a charger for the iPhone 16e, there are USB-C options starting at $10 on online selling platforms, although models offering fast charging and multiple ports tend to be more expensive. With the iPhone 16e's wireless charging capability, it is also important to consider MagSafe chargers. There are several recommended lists of chargers that have been tested, among which Anker products stand out, such as the Anker Prime 3-in-1 Charger with 67W, which has two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, and the simpler Anker 511 Charger (Nano Pro), available in various colors. The Nano Pro model, while it only has one charging port and supports up to 20W, is perfectly suitable for the iPhone 16e, which has the same charging limit.