Do Airpods Come with Iphone 12 Pro

No, AirPods do not come with the iPhone 12 Pro. Apple sells AirPods separately from all iPhone models, including the iPhone 12 Pro. Your iPhone 12 Pro box only includes the phone, a charging cable, and basic documentation—no earbuds of any kind. To listen to music or take calls wirelessly, you’ll need to purchase AirPods (or another pair of wireless earbuds) on their own.

Picture this: you finally get your hands on the shiny new iPhone 12 Pro. You tear open the box with excitement, ready to experience that premium Apple magic. But as you dig through the packaging, you realize something’s missing. Where are the earbuds? Don’t worry—you’re not alone in asking “do AirPods come with iPhone 12 Pro?” because millions of buyers have had the exact same surprise.

The short answer is no. AirPods have never been included with any iPhone, and the iPhone 12 Pro is no exception. In fact, starting in 2020, Apple made a major change to what comes inside the iPhone box. They removed the charger AND the EarPods (those wired earbuds that used to come free). This decision sparked plenty of debate, but it’s been Apple’s policy ever since.

Think of it like buying a new car. The car comes with wheels and seats, but it doesn’t come with a custom sound system—that’s an upgrade you choose yourself. Similarly, your iPhone 12 Pro is the foundation, and AirPods are the optional premium accessory. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this topic so you can make the best decision for your listening needs.

Key Takeaways

• No AirPods Included: The iPhone 12 Pro does not come with any earbuds in the box, including AirPods.
• What’s in the Box: You get the iPhone, a USB-C to Lightning cable, documentation, and a SIM ejector tool—nothing else.
• Apple’s Reasoning: Apple stopped including earbuds with iPhones starting with the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020.
• Separate Purchase: AirPods must be bought separately, either directly from Apple or third-party retailers.
• Compatible AirPods: The iPhone 12 Pro works with AirPods Pro, AirPods (2nd and 3rd gen), and AirPods Max.
• Price Considerations: AirPods range from $129 to $549, depending on the model you choose.
• Alternatives Exist: Many third-party wireless earbuds work seamlessly with the iPhone 12 Pro at various price points.

The Straight Answer: AirPods and iPhone 12 Pro Are Separate Purchases

Let’s put this mystery to rest once and for all. AirPods do not come with the iPhone 12 Pro, and they have never come with any iPhone model ever made by Apple. This isn’t a mistake, and it’s not something Apple is hiding. It’s simply how their product lineup works.

Why Apple Separates These Products

Apple treats AirPods as a distinct product category, much like the Apple Watch or iPad. These are premium accessories that Apple wants customers to choose based on their personal preferences and budget. By selling them separately, Apple gives you freedom—you can pick the AirPods model that suits you best, skip it if you already have wireless earbuds, or even choose a third-party option.

Here’s a simple analogy: imagine going to a coffee shop. You order a latte, but the shop doesn’t automatically throw in a pastry. You can add one if you want, but it’s your choice. Apple works the same way with AirPods. The iPhone is your main purchase, and everything else is optional.

The Shift That Happened in 2020

Here’s something interesting that many people don’t know. Before the iPhone 12 series launched in October 2020, Apple used to include a pair of wired EarPods in every iPhone box. These weren’t AirPods—they were the traditional earbuds with a Lightning connector. However, Apple decided to remove even these from the iPhone 12 packaging.

Did You Know? Apple’s stated reason for removing accessories was environmental. They claimed that millions of people already had earbuds and chargers, so including them created unnecessary e-waste. By reducing the box size, they also said they could ship more products on each delivery truck, reducing carbon emissions. Whether you buy this reasoning or not, it became the new normal starting with the iPhone 12 Pro.

What Actually Comes in the iPhone 12 Pro Box?

Since AirPods aren’t included, you might be wondering what you DO get when you buy an iPhone 12 Pro. The answer might surprise you—it’s actually a pretty minimalist package.

The Complete Box Contents

• The iPhone 12 Pro itself – obviously!
• USB-C to Lightning Cable – for charging and connecting to computers
• Documentation Packet – including a quick start guide, warranty information, and Apple stickers
• SIM Ejector Tool – that tiny metal pin for opening your SIM tray

That’s it. No charger. No earbuds. No headphones. Just the phone, a charging cable, and paperwork. Many people found this shocking, especially since iPhones had previously included power adapters and EarPods for years.

What You’ll Need to Buy Separately

To actually use your iPhone 12 Pro, you might need to pick up a few extra items:

• Power Adapter: The included cable has a USB-C end, but you need a USB-C wall plug to charge your phone. Apple’s 20W adapter costs around $19, though third-party options work too.
• Wireless Earbuds or Headphones: Since there’s no way to listen to audio without them (unless you use the phone’s speakers), you’ll want some form of headphones.
• Screen Protector and Case: These aren’t included either, and they’re highly recommended to protect your investment.

This might feel like a lot of extra spending, but remember that many people upgrading from older iPhones already had these accessories lying around. Apple was betting on the fact that most customers wouldn’t need duplicates of things they already owned.

Which AirPods Work with iPhone 12 Pro?

Here’s the good news: the iPhone 12 Pro works with virtually every AirPods model Apple has ever released. You have plenty of options depending on your budget and preferences.

AirPods Compatibility Breakdown

The iPhone 12 Pro runs iOS 14 (out of the box) and supports all modern AirPods models. Here are your main choices:

AirPods Pro (1st Generation)

• Released alongside the iPhone 11 Pro in 2019
• Features active noise cancellation and transparency mode
• Comes with silicone tips in three sizes for a custom fit
• Priced around $249 (though often on sale now)
• Excellent choice for iPhone 12 Pro users

AirPods (3rd Generation)

• Released in October 2021
• Features spatial audio and adaptive EQ
• Comes with a MagSafe charging case
• Priced around $169
• Great middle-ground option

AirPods (2nd Generation)

• Released in 2019
• The most affordable AirPods option
• Still delivers solid sound quality
• Priced around $129
• Perfect if you’re on a budget

AirPods Max

• Released in December 2020
• Premium over-ear headphones
• Features high-fidelity sound and noise cancellation
• Priced around $549
• For audiophiles willing to splurge

How to Connect AirPods to Your iPhone 12 Pro

One of the best things about AirPods and iPhone is how seamlessly they work together. Connecting them is almost magical. Here’s how:

1. Open your AirPods case near your iPhone 12 Pro
2. A setup animation appears on your phone screen
3. Tap “Connect”
4. If you have an Apple ID, your AirPods sync across all your devices automatically

That’s it—no fiddling with Bluetooth settings or typing in passcodes. It’s like the two devices just recognize each other and connect. This is one of the biggest advantages of staying within the Apple ecosystem.

The Real Cost of Owning AirPods with iPhone 12 Pro

Let’s talk numbers because buying an iPhone 12 Pro is already a significant investment. Adding AirPods to the mix increases the total cost considerably.

Pricing for Different AirPods Models

Here’s a clear breakdown of what you’ll pay for various AirPods options in 2024:

• AirPods (2nd Gen): Starting at $129 from Apple
• AirPods (3rd Gen): Starting at $169 from Apple
• AirPods Pro (1st Gen): Starting at $249 from Apple (often discounted)
• AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): Starting at $249 from Apple
• AirPods Max: Starting at $549 from Apple

Remember that prices at third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are often lower than Apple’s prices. You can frequently find AirPods Pro for $179-$199 during sales events.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Consider

If AirPods feel too expensive, you’re not locked into buying them. The iPhone 12 Pro works with any Bluetooth headphones, and many excellent alternatives exist:

Third-Party Wireless Earbuds That Work Great with iPhone:

• Sony WF-1000XM4 – Premium sound and noise cancellation
• Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro – Surprisingly good with iPhones
• Beats Studio Buds – Made by Apple, priced competitively
• Jabra Elite 75t – Excellent for calls and workouts
• Anker Soundcore Liberty Air – Budget-friendly option under $50

The beauty of Bluetooth is that it works across brands. You don’t need AirPods specifically to enjoy wireless audio with your iPhone 12 Pro.

Common Misconceptions About iPhone Bundles

Plenty of confusion exists around what comes with new iPhones. Let’s clear up some common myths that might be floating around.

Myth 1: “Premium iPhones Include Premium Accessories”

Many people assume that because the iPhone 12 Pro is an expensive “Pro” model, it must come with more in the box. This simply isn’t true. The iPhone 12 Pro and the standard iPhone 12 have identical box contents. The “Pro” designation refers to the phone’s capabilities—better cameras, more storage, premium materials—not what’s included in the package.

Myth 2: “Apple Will Include AirPods with Future iPhones”

There’s a persistent rumor that Apple might bundle AirPods with future iPhone purchases to boost AirPods sales. However, Apple has shown no signs of doing this. They’ve actually moved in the opposite direction by removing accessories, not adding them. Don’t hold your breath waiting for a bundle deal.

Myth 3: “You Need AirPods to Use Your iPhone Fully”

Your iPhone 12 Pro is completely functional without AirPods. You can make calls using the built-in speaker, listen to music through the phone’s speakers, or use any Bluetooth or wired headphones. AirPods are a convenience, not a necessity.

Myth 4: “All iPhones Used to Come with AirPods”

This is false. No iPhone has ever included AirPods in the box. Even the original iPhone from 2007 didn’t come with AirPods because AirPods didn’t exist until 2016. What some older iPhones did include were wired EarPods, but that’s a completely different product.

Tips for Buying AirPods Alongside Your iPhone 12 Pro

If you’ve decided that AirPods are the right choice for you, here are some insider tips to get the most value from your purchase.

Best Times to Buy AirPods

AirPods go on sale regularly if you know when to look. The best deals typically appear during:

• Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Discounts of $30-$50 are common
• Prime Day (July): Amazon offers significant savings
• Back-to-School Season: Retailers offer student-friendly deals
• Apple’s Education Pricing: If you’re a student or teacher, Apple offers year-round education discounts
• Holiday Season (December): Great gift-giving discounts

Consider Buying Refurbished

Apple sells certified refurbished AirPods at discounted prices. These are tested and verified to work like new, come with a new battery, and include a one-year warranty. You can save 15-20% this way.

Think About Your Use Case

Before choosing which AirPods to buy, think about how you’ll use them:

• For commuting and travel: AirPods Pro with noise cancellation
• For workouts and running: AirPods Pro with their sweat-resistant design
• For office and casual use: Standard AirPods (3rd gen)
• For audiophiles and home listening: AirPods Max
• For occasional use: AirPods (2nd gen) for the best value

Don’t Forget About AppleCare+

AirPods are small, easy to lose, and not exactly cheap to replace. Consider AppleCare+ for Headphones, which covers accidental damage and battery service. It costs around $29 for two years of coverage and could save you from expensive replacements.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

So there you have it—the complete answer to “do AirPods come with iPhone 12 Pro?” is a definitive no. AirPods are always a separate purchase, and your iPhone 12 Pro will arrive without any earbuds in the box. While this might feel frustrating, especially for first-time iPhone buyers, it gives you flexibility to choose the audio solution that fits your life best.

The iPhone 12 Pro is an incredible phone that deserves equally impressive audio companions. Whether you splurge on AirPods Max for premium sound quality, choose AirPods Pro for versatility and noise cancellation, or go with the standard AirPods for everyday use, you’ll be getting a fantastic wireless experience.

If AirPods are out of your budget, don’t stress. The iPhone 12 Pro works beautifully with countless third-party wireless earbuds at every price point. The important thing is finding what works for your ears, your lifestyle, and your wallet. After all, the best headphones are the ones you’ll actually use and enjoy every single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do AirPods come with the iPhone 12 Pro when I buy it new?

No, AirPods never come included with any iPhone, including the iPhone 12 Pro. The box only contains the phone, a USB-C to Lightning cable, documentation, and a SIM ejector tool. You need to purchase AirPods separately if you want them.

Why did Apple stop including earbuds with the iPhone 12 Pro?

Apple removed EarPods from all iPhone 12 models in 2020, citing environmental reasons. They claimed many users already owned earbuds, making them unnecessary e-waste. This decision also allowed for smaller, more efficient shipping packaging.

Which AirPods are the best match for iPhone 12 Pro?

The iPhone 12 Pro works with all AirPods models, but AirPods Pro offer the best overall experience thanks to active noise cancellation, a customizable fit, and seamless iOS integration. The AirPods (3rd generation) are a great choice if you prefer a more affordable option without silicone tips.

Can I use wired EarPods with iPhone 12 Pro?

Yes, but you’ll need to buy them separately since they don’t come in the box. The iPhone 12 Pro has a Lightning port, so you’ll need either Lightning EarPods or use a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter with traditional headphones. Note that Apple doesn’t include these adapters either.

How much do AirPods cost in addition to the iPhone 12 Pro?

AirPods prices range from $129 for AirPods (2nd generation) to $549 for AirPods Max. AirPods Pro typically retail for $249. Keep in mind that third-party retailers often offer discounts, especially during major sales events like Black Friday.

Are there cheaper alternatives to AirPods that work with iPhone 12 Pro?

Absolutely! The iPhone 12 Pro works with any Bluetooth headphones. Popular alternatives include Beats Studio Buds, Sony WF-1000XM4, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and Anker Soundcore Liberty Air. These often offer comparable sound quality at lower prices than AirPods.