What’s Inside the Box of the New MacBook Pro with M5 Chip?
If you’re contemplating purchasing the new MacBook Pro with M5 chip, it’s crucial to understand what’s included in the box. Depending on your location, you might find that the laptop arrives without a power adapter. This omission could mean additional expenses and delays before you can start using your new device. If you already own a compatible charger, you’re in luck; otherwise, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing one separately.
Goodbye to the Power Adapter
Apple has decided to exclude the charger from the packaging of the new M5 MacBook Pro in certain markets. As of now, it remains unclear whether this policy applies throughout the entire European Union. We have reached out to Apple for clarification on the matter.
Use the Charger You Have or Make a Purchase
When adding the device to your shopping cart, the Apple store suggests various accessories, including options like AppleCare+ or additional cables. Among these accessories is a 70 W USB-C power adapter, priced at 65 euros. Alternatively, a more powerful 96 W version is available for 85 euros.
Before completing your purchase, Apple suggests several additional accessories, including a charger.
Inclusion of the Charger: Different Countries, Different Policies
We’ve confirmed that when purchasing the new MacBook Pro M5 from the online stores of Apple in Spain or Italy, the power adapter is not included. The box contains merely the charging cable and the device itself. In contrast, the story is different in the United States, where the charger is part of the package.
Why Apple Has Made This Move
While Apple has not provided a specific rationale for the exclusion of the charger from the M5 MacBook Pro, the measure appears to align with the company’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability. Back in 2020, when Apple removed the charger from its iPhones, the company emphasized that the decision aimed to reduce carbon emissions. It’s noteworthy that they highlighted how the new packaging design enhanced shipping efficiency by allowing 70% more boxes per pallet, potentially reducing over two million metric tons of CO₂ annually.
Comparison in the Apple online store: the MacBook Pro with charger (above) and without charger (below).
Effect on Other Mac Models
Currently, this change seems to affect only the newly configured M5 chip models. If you decide to purchase a 14-inch MacBook Pro today from the Apple Store in Spain or Italy, the power adapter is still included along with the USB-C to MagSafe cable. The same applies to previously released models, including the MacBook Air M4.
Alternatives to Apple Chargers
Buying Apple’s official charger isn’t your only option. There are various third-party alternatives that comply with the USB-C Power Delivery charging standard, often more affordable while still delivering satisfactory performance. However, ensure that any alternative charger you consider is fully compatible with the MacBook Pro M5 and carries the necessary safety certifications. Using inferior quality chargers may negatively impact performance or shorten the device’s battery lifespan.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple since 2011.
Resale Value: Including or Excluding the Charger
In the past, it was customary to sell a used device with its charger included. This was almost a given: you bought a new unit that had a charger, and you passed on your previous one. However, this custom has begun to shift since Apple stopped including chargers in its iPhones. Now, a pertinent question arises: when selling your laptop, will you consider including the charger?
The Tim Cook Era and Its Influence
This isn’t the first time Apple has removed a traditional component from its products. Under CEO Tim Cook, we have observed the elimination of earphones, the iPhone charger, and most recently, the Apple Watch charger. All these changes are justified under the same umbrella of sustainability and environmental impact reduction.
Future Leadership and Industry Trends
As rumors surrounding Tim Cook’s succession have grown more frequent, speculation about his potential replacement includes names like John Ternus, although official statements from Apple are scarce. The legacy of decision-making, including these significant changes, continues to shape the company’s future direction.
Images | Apple | Screenshot
In Xataka | The Vision Pro with M5 proves something: Apple has yet to figure out how to utilize them effectively in the market.