Apple recently made changes to its cheapest iPad model in Europe that are particularly relevant for buyers in countries like Germany, France and other Eurozone states. The company has removed the charger from the device's box, but is offering a price cut in return. This decision is part of a larger trend that Apple has already introduced in other products like the iPhone.
The world of technology is constantly changing and Apple has always positioned itself at the forefront of these changes with its products. This time, the adjustment concerns the cheapest iPad model, which is now sold in Europe without a charger. At the same time, Apple has introduced a price reduction to compensate for the lack of the charger.
The change: No more charger
Apple has decided to remove the charger from the packaging of the cheapest iPad. Instead, the box now only contains a USB-C cable that you can use with an existing charger or another device with a USB-C port. However, this measure does not apply worldwide and only affects European markets for the time being. Interestingly, the charger remains part of the iPad packaging in the US, while European customers have to make do without it. One reason for this could be Apple's ongoing effort to reduce electronic waste and protect the environment. Many people already have chargers that they can continue to use, which further supports Apple's decision.
The price reduction: What you need to know
To compensate for the lack of a charger, Apple has reduced the prices of the cheapest iPad model in Europe. Let's take a closer look at some examples:
- Germany and Eurozone: In Germany and other Eurozone countries, the price of the iPad has been reduced from €429 to €399. Here, the 20W USB-C charging adapter costs €25 – at Amazon for 22.99 euros This means that if you buy the charger separately, you will save about €5.
(Amazon has already responded to Apple’s price reduction and is currently offering the device for 387.35 euros to.)
These price reductions are designed to ensure that you don't pay extra when purchasing the iPad, even if you need a new charger. For many users who already have a suitable charger, this could represent a small saving.
Differences between Europe and the USA
One of the most striking aspects of this change is the fact that Apple has only implemented this measure in Europe. In the US, the charger remains part of the box and the price of the iPad remains the same. Why Apple has decided to treat the European market differently is not entirely clear, but there are a few possible reasons:
- Environmental policy: Europe has stricter regulations and a greater sensitivity to environmentally friendly measures. Apple could try to target the European market with this measure, as the demand for sustainable products is higher there.
- Cost structure: It is possible that Apple will follow a different pricing policy in Europe to meet market demands. By removing the charger and reducing the price at the same time, the price remains competitive.
What does this mean for you as a buyer?
If you're looking to buy the new iPad in Europe, you'll want to make sure you have a compatible charger. Apple is using the USB-C standard, so you may already be able to use a charger from another device. If you don't have a USB-C charger, you'll need to buy one separately, which will cost extra. If you already have a compatible charger, you'll benefit from the price reduction. However, if you need to buy a charger, the savings will be minimal.
Fewer accessories, less costs: Apple's sustainable iPad 10 step
Apple's decision to remove the charger from the box of its cheapest iPad is another step towards sustainability. In several European countries, the price was reduced at the same time to compensate for the loss of the charger. For buyers in Europe, this means a small saving if they already own a charger. However, if you need to buy a new charger, the price reduction is hardly significant. Overall, the iPad remains an inexpensive and powerful device, but you should consider whether you are willing to do without the included charger or purchase an additional charger. However, if you already have a suitable charger, you can benefit from this change. (Image: Apple)
- Apple plans new smart home products and platform in 2025
- iPad mini 2024: A17 Pro, WiFi 6E and new Pencil features
