Apple saved RM27.3 billion by taking out Earpods and chargers from iPhone boxes

A report by the Dailymail said that Apple saved GBP 5 billion (about RM27.3 billion) thanks to its decision to cut out Earpods and chargers from iPhone boxes in an effort to “save the environment”. The company previously pointed out that by reducing the size of the boxes that the iPhone comes in, 70% more devices could fit on a shipping pallet—reducing its carbon footprint and eliminating over 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions.

When the iPhone 12 series was introduced, Apple announced that they were excluding power adapters in the boxes of new iPhone units. Its environmental report stated that not including a charger for its products has helped save nearly a million metric tons of precious materials that are mined from the earth. However, not everyone believes that Apple made this move to help the environment, but rather the company was more motivated by making money.

Still, other smartphone makers have since followed Apple’s footsteps. Xiaomi and Samsung ditched device chargers from boxes—even after both companies poked fun at Apple for not including a charger for their new iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro series.

“At Apple, we are constantly innovating to conserve resources and protect the planet we all share. Already carbon neutral for our own operations, we’ve set an ambitious goal to become carbon neutral for our entire supply chain and product usage by 2030—so every Apple device sold will have net-zero carbon impact. One of the steps along our path is to reduce the materials used in our products and packaging. This important step-cut over 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions—equivalent to removing 500,000 cars from the road per year—and others are following our lead,” said an Apple spokesman.

Since Apple started removing the charger and EarPods from the iPhone box, the company is believed to have shipped 190 million iPhone units. This cost-cutting move resulted in a total of GBP 5 billion that the Daily Mail calculated. The publication also adds that Apple customers have spent USD 293.4 million (about RM1.2 billion) on accessories since the company removed the box accessories. But, hey—Apple promises that it’s for the greater good, right?

[ SOURCE, IMAGE SOURCE ]

Related reading

• After making fun of Apple, Xiaomi is also ditching the charger for its new Mi 11 flagship smartphone
• Apple: Not including a charger has saved 861,000 metric tons of precious metals