Google introduced the Pixel 5a with 5G. The new Pixel 5a with 5G is quite similar to last year’s Pixel 4a (5G): They both have the same cameras, processors, port options, software, and basically the same displays. Moreover, both devices come with a charger in the box, which is another fact worth noting considering that both Samsung and Apple have stopped doing that for their latest flagships. In the coming months, Google will join both Apple and Samsung in shipping a phone without a charger, as the company has confirmed its upcoming Pixel 6 series will not come with one.
Google will no longer ship Charger in the box:
The Verge reported that Google said the Pixel 5a is the last Pixel phone to come with a charging brick, so the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro won’t include one. Both phones will launch this fall with high-end hardware and software, and they’ll be available in countries where Samsung and Apple already ship phones without an in-box charger.
Unlike most competitors, Google will not include a charger in the Pixel 6 box, because most consumers are already familiar with USB-C chargers. Keeping a charger out of the box has other advantages as well. By doing this, Google is saving money by not manufacturing chargers for every phone.
Additionally, it also reduces distribution costs, as the company can reduce the size and weight of the Pixel 6’s box. Whether these savings will be passed onto consumers is unknown. The removal of the in-box charger will also reduce e-waste, at least in theory, since users will have one less component to discard when they upgrade their devices.
Originally, mobile phone makers, Apple and Samsung did not ship equipment with chargers. It was Apple’s iPhone 12 series that led the way, but Samsung followed shortly thereafter with the Galaxy S21 series. Samsung continues to exclude the in-box charger with its latest foldable. The other OEMs have joined the trend, citing the same justifications as Google. Both OnePlus and Xiaomi include chargers with their latest smartphones, but it’s only a matter of time until they follow suit.
Rumours claim the Pixel 6 will feature faster wireless charging, but it is unclear whether they will support faster-wired charging as well. Google’s own USB-C power adapter was previously compatible with 18W wired charging for Pixel phones. Google will likely improve charging speeds in the next Pixel. We hope they offer users the option of picking up a charger with their purchase.
