Why Samsung Removed the Charger from the Box

If you’ve bought a recent Samsung phone and noticed the charger is missing, you’re not alone. Samsung’s decision to remove the charger from the box sparked debate, frustration, and plenty of skepticism. Was it really about the environment, or just cost-cutting?

Here’s the real reason why Samsung removed the charger from the box, and what it actually means for users.

The Official Reason: Environmental Impact

Samsung’s primary explanation is environmental responsibility. By removing chargers, Samsung reduces electronic waste and cuts down on packaging size. Smaller boxes mean more phones can be shipped at once, lowering carbon emissions during transportation.

On paper, this makes sense, millions of unused chargers sit in drawers worldwide.

The Business Reality Behind the Decision

Let’s be honest. Removing chargers also saves Samsung money. Chargers cost money to manufacture, certify, package, and ship. By excluding them, Samsung reduces production costs while keeping phone prices largely the same.

At the same time, Samsung sells fast chargers separately, creating an additional revenue stream. Environmental benefits may be real, but they’re not the whole story.

Faster Charging Changed Everything

Modern Samsung phones now support higher charging speeds like 25W and 45W. Many older chargers can’t deliver these speeds safely or efficiently.

By removing the charger, Samsung avoids including a slow adapter that doesn’t match the phone’s capabilities. This gives users the choice to buy the exact charger they want instead of receiving one they might never use.

USB-C Standardization Played a Role

Most devices now use USB-C, from phones and tablets to earbuds and laptops. Samsung assumes users already own compatible chargers.

This shift made it easier for Samsung to justify removing the charger, especially as USB-C becomes the universal standard across devices.

How This Affects Samsung Users

For longtime Samsung users, this change may not matter much if you already own a fast charger. For first-time buyers or users upgrading from much older phones, it can feel like an unnecessary extra expense.

The upside is flexibility, you’re not forced to use a bundled charger that may not suit your needs.

FAQ

Do all Samsung phones come without chargers now?
Most mid-range and flagship Samsung phones no longer include chargers, though policies can vary by region and model.

Can I use an old Samsung charger safely?
Yes, as long as it meets the phone’s power requirements and is in good condition.

Will Samsung ever bring chargers back?
Unlikely. The industry has largely moved in this direction, and Samsung shows no signs of reversing course.

Is fast charging worse for battery health?
Not significantly. Samsung’s charging systems are designed to manage heat and protect battery longevity.

Conclusion

So, why did Samsung remove the charger from the box? The answer is a mix of environmental positioning, cost savings, and changing charging standards. While the eco-friendly argument holds some weight, the financial benefits for Samsung are undeniable.

For users, the key takeaway is simple: make sure you’re using a high-quality, compatible charger. The charger may be gone from the box, but fast and safe charging is still very much in your control.