Google Ditching Chargers Starting with Pixel 6, Joining Apple and Samsung

Earlier today, Google announced the Pixel 5a with 5G smartphone for the U.S. and Japan (but not Canada). This Pixel 5a includes an in-box charger brick, but that’s not going to last long, according to Google.

The Verge reports the Pixel 5a will be the last smartphone from Google to include an in-box USB-C power adapter. According to Google, there is no longer a need to include charging bricks as it says most people already have one.

The move follows a decision first made by Apple in 2020, then followed shortly by Samsung (after originally mocking the iPhone maker for doing so, of course). By ditching a charging adapter, it results in money saved by these companies, and also reduces carbon footprint by removing e-waste from hitting landfills.

Apple ditched earbuds and chargers last year with the iPhone 12 lineup, resulting in smaller retail packaging. Smaller boxes mean more units on a pallet when shipping in the air, allowing for a reduction in carbon emissions, as more phones can be shipped on a plane.

So when the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro launch later this year, don’t expect a charging brick inside the boxes.

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