Xiaomi, a leading Chinese smartphone manufacturer, is rumored to be joining the trend of excluding chargers from its phone packaging. This speculation comes after the release of the Redmi 13 series in Europe, which notably does not include a charger in the box.

While Xiaomi has not officially confirmed this change, it could indicate a shift in the company’s strategy. Future Xiaomi phones, especially those launched in Europe, may follow suit and come without chargers. However, higher-end models might still include chargers as a premium feature.

Currently, Xiaomi recommends using their 33W Type-A charging combo for the Redmi 13, hinting at a possible shift towards selling chargers separately. This aligns with a trend seen among other smartphone manufacturers aiming to reduce electronic waste and potentially lower prices by excluding chargers from packaging.

Critics argue that this move could inconvenience consumers who do not have compatible chargers readily available or typically sell their old phones with the charger included. There are also concerns about consumers opting for cheaper third-party chargers that may pose safety risks.

On the other hand, Xiaomi’s decision could boost accessory sales revenue by selling chargers separately. This strategy may help offset any costs related to removing chargers from phone boxes.

It remains uncertain whether this change will apply to all Xiaomi devices or specific models. It could be a test to gauge consumer feedback before making a final decision. Regardless, this move could have significant implications for the smartphone industry and consumer behavior.