The question of whether the iPhone 12 includes a car charger is a common one, especially for new iPhone owners. The answer, unfortunately, is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. This article will delve deep into the charging accessories that Apple provides (or doesn’t provide) with the iPhone 12, explore the reasons behind Apple’s decision, and offer a range of optimal car charging solutions to keep your iPhone 12 powered up on the go.
The IPhone 12 And Its Box Contents: What’s Included?
When the iPhone 12 was released, one of the most significant changes was the redesigned packaging and the reduction in included accessories. While previous iPhone models typically came with a wall charger and EarPods, the iPhone 12 notably omitted these items from the box. So, what does come with a brand new iPhone 12?
Inside the slim box, you’ll find the iPhone 12 itself, a USB-C to Lightning cable, documentation, and the SIM ejector tool. That’s it. No power adapter, no headphones. This decision sparked considerable debate among consumers and industry experts alike.
The USB-C to Lightning cable is designed to connect your iPhone 12 to a computer or a USB-C power adapter. However, this doesn’t directly solve the problem of charging your iPhone 12 in your car, unless your car is equipped with a USB-C port.
Apple’s Rationale: Environmental Concerns And A Push For Wireless Charging
Apple justified the removal of the power adapter and EarPods by citing environmental concerns. The company argued that most users already own these accessories and that including them with every new iPhone contributes to electronic waste. By reducing the packaging size and eliminating these accessories, Apple claimed to reduce its carbon footprint and conserve resources.
Another, perhaps less explicitly stated, reason is to encourage the adoption of wireless charging. Apple has been a proponent of wireless charging for several years, and removing the wired charger from the box pushes users to explore this alternative. While wireless charging is convenient, it’s not always the most practical option in a car.
Apple’s official stance is that this decision is about sustainability, but it also benefits the company financially. By selling chargers and accessories separately, Apple creates an additional revenue stream.
Understanding Car Charging Options For Your IPhone 12
Since the iPhone 12 doesn’t include a car charger, you’ll need to purchase one separately. Fortunately, there’s a wide range of options available to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the most common car charging solutions:
USB Car Chargers: The Standard Solution
The most common and widely available option is a USB car charger. These chargers plug into your car’s cigarette lighter socket (or 12V accessory port) and provide one or more USB ports for charging your devices. To charge your iPhone 12 with a USB car charger, you’ll need the USB-C to Lightning cable that came with your phone, or a standard USB-A to Lightning cable if your charger only has USB-A ports.
Consider a car charger with Power Delivery (PD) for faster charging. PD chargers can deliver more power to your iPhone 12, resulting in significantly faster charging times compared to standard USB chargers.
Wireless Car Chargers: A Cord-Free Experience
Wireless car chargers offer a more convenient and clutter-free charging experience. These chargers use the Qi wireless charging standard, which is supported by the iPhone 12. Simply place your iPhone 12 on the charging pad or mount, and it will begin charging wirelessly.
Wireless car chargers come in various designs, including dashboard mounts, vent mounts, and cup holder mounts. Choose a design that best suits your car’s interior and your personal preferences. Ensure the wireless charger supports at least 7.5W charging, which is the maximum wireless charging speed supported by the iPhone 12.
Charging Docks: A Multi-Device Solution
If you frequently travel with multiple devices, a charging dock might be the ideal solution. These docks plug into your car’s cigarette lighter socket and provide multiple USB ports and/or wireless charging pads, allowing you to charge several devices simultaneously.
Charging docks are particularly useful for families or anyone who needs to charge their iPhone, iPad, and other gadgets while on the road. Look for docks that offer sufficient power output to charge all your devices efficiently.
Power Banks: A Portable Power Source
While not strictly a “car charger,” a power bank can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go and don’t have access to a power outlet. A power bank is a portable battery pack that you can charge at home and then use to charge your iPhone 12 while you’re in the car, on a plane, or anywhere else.
Power banks come in various sizes and capacities. Choose a power bank with enough capacity to fully charge your iPhone 12 at least once or twice. A power bank with Power Delivery (PD) support will charge your iPhone 12 much faster.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Car Charger
With so many car charging options available, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a purchase. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Charging Speed: If you need to charge your iPhone 12 quickly, look for a charger that supports Power Delivery (PD) or Quick Charge (QC).
- Number of Ports: Consider how many devices you need to charge simultaneously. If you frequently travel with multiple devices, choose a charger with multiple ports.
- Wireless Charging: If you prefer a cord-free charging experience, opt for a wireless car charger.
- Mounting Style: Consider the mounting style of the charger. Dashboard mounts, vent mounts, and cup holder mounts are all available.
- Safety Features: Look for chargers that have built-in safety features, such as over-current protection, over-voltage protection, and short-circuit protection.
- Brand Reputation: Choose a charger from a reputable brand to ensure quality and reliability.
- Price: Car chargers range in price from inexpensive to premium. Set a budget and choose a charger that offers the best value for your money.
Recommended Car Chargers For The IPhone 12
Here are a few highly recommended car chargers for the iPhone 12, based on different needs and budgets:
- Anker PowerDrive III Duo: A compact and affordable USB car charger with two USB-C ports, both supporting Power Delivery (PD).
- RAVPower 65W Car Charger: A powerful car charger with one USB-C port (supporting PD) and one USB-A port, perfect for charging multiple devices.
- iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2: A wireless car charger mount that securely holds your iPhone 12 while charging it wirelessly.
- Mophie Power Boost XXL: A high-capacity power bank with USB-C PD, ideal for charging your iPhone 12 multiple times on the go.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other excellent car chargers available on the market. Read reviews and compare features before making a purchase to ensure you choose the best charger for your needs.
Maximizing Charging Efficiency In Your Car
To get the most out of your car charger, consider these tips:
- Use a high-quality cable: A damaged or low-quality cable can significantly reduce charging speed. Use the original Apple cable or a certified MFi cable.
- Avoid using your phone while charging: Using your phone while it’s charging will slow down the charging process.
- Keep your phone cool: Heat can damage your iPhone 12’s battery. Avoid leaving your phone in direct sunlight or in a hot car.
- Close unnecessary apps: Apps running in the background can drain your battery and slow down charging. Close any apps that you’re not using.
- Enable Low Power Mode: Low Power Mode reduces background activity and optimizes performance to extend battery life.
Conclusion: Staying Powered Up On The Road
While the iPhone 12 doesn’t come with a car charger, a wide range of options are available to keep your device powered up while you’re on the go. From simple USB car chargers to convenient wireless chargers and versatile power banks, there’s a solution to suit every need and budget. By considering the factors outlined in this article and choosing a high-quality charger from a reputable brand, you can ensure that your iPhone 12 is always ready for action, no matter where your journey takes you. Investing in a reliable car charger is essential for any iPhone 12 owner who spends a significant amount of time on the road.
Does The IPhone 12 Come With A Car Charger Included In The Box?
No, the iPhone 12 does not come with a car charger in the box. This was a conscious decision by Apple to reduce the environmental impact of their products and packaging. They assume many users already have charging adapters and cables, and providing yet another one for every new phone would lead to a significant amount of electronic waste.
This shift in policy means that if you need a car charger for your iPhone 12, you’ll have to purchase one separately. Consider this a separate accessory you’ll need to factor into the overall cost of owning the iPhone 12, especially if you frequently charge your phone while driving.
Why Did Apple Stop Including A Car Charger And Wall Adapter With The IPhone 12?
Apple cited environmental concerns as the primary reason for removing the included charging adapter and earbuds from the iPhone 12 box. By reducing the size of the packaging, they can ship more units per container, lowering carbon emissions from transportation. This decision aligns with their broader commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Furthermore, Apple believes that most users already own compatible chargers from previous iPhones or other devices. Encouraging the re-use of existing accessories minimizes electronic waste and reduces the demand for newly manufactured chargers, further contributing to environmental sustainability.
What Type Of Car Charger Is Best Suited For The IPhone 12?
The best type of car charger for your iPhone 12 would be one that supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). This technology allows for faster charging speeds compared to standard USB charging. Look for car chargers with a USB-C port that specifically advertises USB-PD compatibility.
Alternatively, a standard USB-A car charger will also work to charge your iPhone 12, but the charging speeds will be significantly slower. Consider the amperage output of the charger; a higher amperage (2.4A or greater) will typically charge your device faster than a lower amperage charger.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A USB-C Car Charger With Power Delivery For The IPhone 12?
The primary benefit of using a USB-C car charger with Power Delivery (USB-PD) is significantly faster charging speeds. Your iPhone 12 can take advantage of the faster charging capabilities offered by USB-PD, allowing you to replenish its battery more quickly while on the go. This is particularly useful for shorter car rides or when you need a quick power boost.
Beyond faster charging, USB-C with Power Delivery offers a more efficient charging process, which can potentially help extend the lifespan of your iPhone 12’s battery over time. The charger intelligently adjusts the voltage and current delivered to the device, optimizing the charging process for improved battery health and longevity.
Are There Any Official Apple Car Charger Options For The IPhone 12?
Apple does not offer a branded car charger specifically marketed as an “official Apple car charger.” However, they do sell USB-C to Lightning cables that can be used with a third-party USB-C car charger. These cables are officially certified by Apple and guaranteed to work seamlessly with your iPhone 12.
While not a car charger itself, the USB-C to Lightning cable is a crucial component. Using an Apple-certified cable ensures optimal charging performance and protects your iPhone 12 from potential damage caused by non-compliant or low-quality cables.
What Should I Look For In A Third-party Car Charger For The IPhone 12 To Ensure Compatibility And Safety?
When choosing a third-party car charger for your iPhone 12, prioritize reputable brands known for quality and safety. Look for chargers that have undergone testing and certification from organizations like UL or ETL. These certifications indicate that the charger meets industry safety standards and has been thoroughly tested to prevent overheating, overcharging, and other potential hazards.
Ensure the car charger supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) for faster charging speeds. Check the amperage output of the charger; a higher amperage will generally charge your iPhone 12 faster. Read user reviews to get insights into the charger’s reliability, charging performance, and overall user experience.
Can I Use An Older IPhone Car Charger With My IPhone 12?
Yes, you can use an older iPhone car charger with your iPhone 12, provided it has a USB port and you have a compatible Lightning cable. However, keep in mind that older chargers typically use standard USB-A ports and may not support the faster charging speeds offered by USB Power Delivery (USB-PD).
Charging with an older charger will still replenish your iPhone 12’s battery, but it will likely take significantly longer than using a USB-C car charger with Power Delivery. While functionally compatible, utilizing a newer USB-C PD charger will offer a superior and more efficient charging experience for your iPhone 12.