Does the iPhone SE come with a charging cable?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

The iPhone SE does come with a charging cable, specifically a USB-C to Lightning cable. However, it does not come with a charger included in the retail box. This change in packaging was first introduced by Apple with the release of the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, and it seems to continue with the 2022 iPhone SE.

While some may see this as an inconvenience, Apple’s reasoning behind this decision is to reduce electronic waste and promote environmental sustainability. By excluding the charger from the box, Apple aims to encourage users to utilize their existing chargers or invest in more efficient charging solutions. The company believes that many consumers already have compatible chargers from previous iPhone models, so including a charger with every new iPhone would only contribute to unnecessary waste.

If you’re worried about not having a charger, it’s important to note that the USB-C to Lightning cable included with the iPhone SE can be connected to a computer or any USB-C power adapter for charging. So, if you don’t have a USB-C power adapter, you can still charge your iPhone SE by plugging it into a computer’s USB port. Additionally, you can purchase a separate USB-C power adapter from Apple or third-party manufacturers if you prefer to have a dedicated charging solution.

It’s worth mentioning that the decision to exclude the charger from the iPhone SE’s retail box aligns with Apple’s overall strategy to transition towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach. The company has also removed the charger from other products, such as the Apple Watch and iPad, in an effort to reduce packaging waste.

While the absence of a charger may be a change for some users, it’s important to consider the environmental impact and long-term benefits of reducing electronic waste. By encouraging the reuse of existing chargers, Apple aims to contribute to a more sustainable future.

The iPhone SE does not come with a charger included in the retail box, but it does come with a USB-C to Lightning cable. This decision reflects Apple’s commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing electronic waste. However, you can still charge the iPhone SE by connecting it to a computer’s USB port or purchasing a separate USB-C power adapter.