Do You Get Airpods with Iphone 12 Pro

No, AirPods are not included with the iPhone 12 Pro. When you unbox your new iPhone 12 Pro, you’ll find the device itself, a USB-C to Lightning cable, and documentation—but no headphones or power brick. Apple made this decision starting with the iPhone 12 lineup to reduce electronic waste and shrink packaging. If you want AirPods, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

So, you just got your shiny new iPhone 12 Pro, or maybe you’re about to buy one. You rip open the box, excited to start using it, and then you notice something missing. Where are the headphones? Where is that little charging brick everyone used to complain about losing? If you’re feeling confused, you’re not alone. Millions of iPhone buyers were surprised by what they found (or didn’t find) inside the iPhone 12 Pro box.

Here’s the simple answer: No, you do not get AirPods with the iPhone 12 Pro. In fact, you don’t get any headphones at all. Apple stopped including free earbuds with their phones starting with the iPhone 12 lineup, and that includes the Pro models. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through exactly what’s in the box, why Apple made this change, and what your best options are for getting audio into your ears.

Think of it like ordering a car. The base model gets you from point A to point B, but the premium sound system costs extra. The iPhone 12 Pro gives you an incredible phone experience, but the AirPods are sold separately. Let’s break down everything you need to know so you can make the best buying decision for your ears and your wallet.

Key Takeaways

• No AirPods in the Box: The iPhone 12 Pro does not come with AirPods or any other headphones included in the package.
• Apple’s Eco-Friendly Move: Starting with the iPhone 12 series, Apple removed both the power adapter and EarPods to cut down on e-waste and carbon emissions.
• What You Actually Get: The iPhone 12 Pro box contains the phone, a USB-C to Lightning cable, documentation, and the Apple sticker—nothing else.
• Why Apple Made This Change: Most users already owned compatible accessories, and removing them saves over 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.
• Buying AirPods Separately: AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max must be purchased as add-ons, with prices ranging from $129 to $549.
• Great Alternatives Exist: Third-party wireless earbuds from brands like Samsung, Sony, and Jabra offer excellent sound at various price points.
• Check for Bundle Deals: Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Apple’s own store often offer bundle discounts when buying AirPods with an iPhone.

What’s Actually in the iPhone 12 Pro Box?

Let’s start with the basics. When you open that sleek Apple packaging, here’s exactly what you’ll find inside:

• The iPhone 12 Pro itself – Your beautiful new smartphone in whatever color you chose (Graphite, Silver, Gold, or Pacific Blue)
• USB-C to Lightning Cable – A one-meter charging cable that connects to a USB-C power adapter (which you don’t get)
• Documentation – The tiny user guide and warranty information booklet
• Apple Sticker – Yes, Apple still includes that classic white logo sticker
• SIM Ejector Tool – For opening the SIM card tray (only in some regions)

That’s it. No charger. No EarPods. No AirPods. Just the phone and a cable. This might feel like a letdown, especially if you’re upgrading from an older iPhone that came fully loaded with accessories.

The Moment of Surprise for New Users

Picture this: You spend $999 or more on a brand new iPhone 12 Pro. You excitedly tear through the packaging, peel off that satisfying plastic wrap, and lift the lid. The phone looks gorgeous. You pick it up, admire the surgical-grade stainless steel edges, and then look around the box for everything else. Your heart sinks a little when you realize the only other item is a charging cable.

This was the reality for millions of iPhone 12 Pro buyers in 2020 and continues for anyone buying this model today. Apple made a controversial decision that changed the unboxing experience forever. But as we’ll explain, there were some good reasons behind it.

Why Did Apple Stop Including AirPods and Headphones?

Apple’s decision to remove accessories from the iPhone box wasn’t random. It was a calculated move based on environmental concerns, cost savings, and changing consumer habits. Let’s look at the real reasons behind this big shift.

The Environmental Argument

In October 2020, Apple announced that they were removing the power adapter and EarPods from iPhone boxes. Their stated goal? Reducing electronic waste and shrinking their carbon footprint. Here’s what Apple claimed:

• Smaller packaging allows 70% more boxes to fit on shipping pallets
• This means more efficient shipping and fewer delivery trucks on the road
• Apple estimated this change would eliminate over 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually
• Most users already had compatible chargers and headphones lying around

Think of it like a coffee shop switching to smaller cups. The coffee is still the same, but the packaging has less waste. Apple’s logic was that by 2020, most iPhone users had already bought multiple charging bricks and pairs of earbuds over the years. Why keep shipping accessories that would just sit in a drawer?

The Business Strategy Behind the Change

Beyond the environmental message, there was definitely a financial motivation. By removing accessories from the box:

• Apple reduced shipping costs because packages became smaller and lighter
• The company could charge separately for AirPods, increasing their accessory revenue
• AirPods became one of Apple’s best-selling products, generating billions in annual revenue
• Apple could position AirPods as a premium add-on rather than a freebie

Did you know that AirPods generate more revenue than some entire tech companies? In 2021, AirPods and other wearables brought Apple over $38 billion in revenue. That’s more than companies like Spotify, Twitter, or Shopify made that year! By selling AirPods separately, Apple turned what used to be a “free bonus” into a massive profit center.

How Much Do AirPods Cost If You Buy Them Separately?

Okay, so AirPods aren’t free with your iPhone 12 Pro. But how much will they actually cost you? Here’s a breakdown of Apple’s current AirPods lineup and their prices (as of 2024):

AirPods (2nd Generation)

Price: $129

These are the entry-level AirPods with decent sound, hands-free Siri, and up to 5 hours of listening time. They’re the most affordable option and work great with the iPhone 12 Pro.

AirPods (3rd Generation)

Price: $169

These offer a newer design, spatial audio support, better battery life (up to 6 hours), and MagSafe charging. They’re a solid middle-ground option.

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Price: $249

These premium earbuds include active noise cancellation, transparency mode, adaptive transparency, and a customizable fit with silicone tips. Perfect for noisy environments and travel.

AirPods Max

Price: $549

These are Apple’s over-ear headphones with high-fidelity sound, active noise cancellation, and a premium design. They’re the most expensive option and compete with brands like Bose and Sony.

So, depending on which model you choose, you’re looking at spending anywhere from $129 to $549 to get official Apple AirPods with your iPhone 12 Pro. That can definitely add up, especially when you’ve already spent $999 or more on the phone itself.

What Are the Best Alternatives to AirPods for iPhone 12 Pro?

Here’s some good news: AirPods aren’t your only option. The wireless earbuds market has exploded in recent years, and there are tons of great alternatives that work perfectly with the iPhone 12 Pro. Let me explain it like this—if AirPods are the “iPhone of earbuds” (premium, well-marketed, and integrated), then the rest of the market is like Android: more variety, different price points, and often comparable quality.

Budget-Friendly Options (Under $50)

• Soundcore Life P3 by Anker: Great sound, noise cancellation, and around $70
• JLab Go Air Pop: Ultra-affordable at around $20 with decent quality
• EarFun Free Pro 2: Active noise cancellation under $50

Mid-Range Options ($50-$150)

• Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: Excellent sound and features at around $100
• Google Pixel Buds Pro: Great integration and ANC at around $140
• Jabra Elite 4: Reliable with good call quality at around $100
• Beats Studio Buds: Made by Apple, work great with iPhone, priced at around $150

Premium Options ($150-$300)

• Sony WF-1000XM5: Industry-leading noise cancellation at around $250
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Premium sound quality at around $280
• Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3: Audiophile-grade sound at around $230

Here’s a “Did You Know” fact: Beats headphones are actually made by Apple! The company acquired Beats Electronics in 2014 for $3 billion. Beats products use Apple’s proprietary chips and integrate seamlessly with iPhones, just like AirPods. If you want that Apple experience with a different design, Beats Studio Buds or Beats Fit Pro are excellent choices.

Why Consider Third-Party Options?

Third-party wireless earbuds often offer features that AirPods don’t, like:

• Longer battery life – Some models offer 8-12 hours per charge
• Better water resistance – Look for IPX5 or IPX7 ratings for workouts
• More color options – Match your personal style
• Different fit options – Some come with multiple ear tip sizes and wing tips
• Multipoint pairing – Connect to two devices at once

Where to Buy AirPods and Get the Best Deals

If you’ve decided that AirPods are the way to go (and honestly, they pair seamlessly with the iPhone 12 Pro thanks to the H1 chip), then you need to know where to find the best deals. Buying AirPods at full price from Apple isn’t your only option!

Apple’s Official Store

Buying directly from Apple gives you the full retail price, but you get guaranteed authenticity, AppleCare eligibility, and free engraving on certain models. It’s the safest option but usually the most expensive.

Amazon

Amazon frequently offers AirPods at discounted prices, especially during Prime Day, Black Friday, and holiday sales. You can often save $20-$50 on AirPods Pro or AirPods Max. Just make sure you’re buying from Apple directly or an authorized reseller to avoid counterfeits.

Best Buy

Best Buy often runs promotions on AirPods, especially when bundled with iPhone purchases. They also offer price matching, so if you find a better deal elsewhere, they’ll match it.

Carrier Stores

Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile sometimes offer free AirPods when you buy an iPhone on a specific plan or trade in an old device. These deals come and go, so it’s worth checking with your carrier.

Refurbished or Used Options

If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying refurbished AirPods directly from Apple’s Refurbished Store. You can save 15-20% and still get a warranty. You can also find used AirPods on eBay or Swappa, but be careful about battery life degradation and authenticity.

Bundle Deals: The Best Way to Save

Here’s a pro tip: Bundle deals are your best friend. When you’re buying an iPhone 12 Pro, many retailers offer package deals that include AirPods at a discount. For example:

• Best Buy might offer $50-$75 off when you bundle AirPods with an iPhone
• Apple’s “Buy AirPods, get Apple Music free for 6 months” promotion (varies by time)
• Amazon frequently offers $30-$40 gift cards when you buy an iPhone and AirPods together

Think of bundle deals like a combo meal at a restaurant. Individually, the items might cost more, but together they’re a better value. Always check for these promotions—they can save you serious money.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your iPhone 12 Pro Audio Experience

Whether you buy AirPods or third-party earbuds, here are some practical tips to enhance your iPhone 12 Pro audio experience:

Tip 1: Take Advantage of Spatial Audio

The iPhone 12 Pro supports spatial audio with Dolby Atmos. This creates an immersive, theater-like experience when watching movies or listening to music. To use it, you need AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, or compatible third-party earbuds. It works on Apple Music, Apple TV+, Netflix, and other supported apps.

Tip 2: Use the Built-in Speakers First

Before buying earbuds, try the iPhone 12 Pro’s built-in stereo speakers. They’re actually quite good for casual listening, calls, and watching videos. You might not need earbuds for every situation.

Tip 3: Check Your Hearing Health

Apple’s Health app tracks your headphone audio levels and warns you when you’re listening too loudly. This is a great feature for protecting your long-term hearing health, especially if you use earbuds frequently.

Tip 4: Explore Audio Sharing

With iPhone 12 Pro, you can share audio between two pairs of AirPods. This is perfect for watching movies on a plane with a friend or sharing a song without splitting earbuds. It’s a fun feature that many users don’t know about!

Tip 5: Don’t Forget About Wired Headphones

If you have favorite wired headphones, the iPhone 12 Pro doesn’t have a headphone jack, but you can use a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter (sold separately for around $9). Sometimes wired is better—especially for gaming or professional audio work where latency matters.

Tip 6: Consider Your Use Case

Think about how you’ll use your earbuds:

• Working out? Look for water/sweat resistance (IPX4 or higher)
• Office/calls? Prioritize microphone quality
• Traveling? Active noise cancellation is worth the investment
• Home listening? Comfort and battery life matter more than ANC

Common Misconceptions About iPhone 12 Pro and AirPods

There are several myths floating around about iPhones and AirPods. Let me clear up the confusion:

Myth 1: “Apple Includes AirPods with Expensive iPhones”

False. Even the iPhone 12 Pro Max, which costs over $1,099, doesn’t include AirPods. Apple treats AirPods as a separate product category, not a phone accessory.

Myth 2: “You Need AirPods to Use an iPhone”

Completely false. The iPhone 12 Pro works with any Bluetooth headphones, wired headphones (with an adapter), or just its built-in speakers. AirPods are convenient, but not necessary.

Myth 3: “AirPods Are the Only Earbuds That Work with iPhone”

Wrong. Any Bluetooth earbuds work with the iPhone 12 Pro. You just won’t get some Apple-specific features like instant pairing and spatial audio with non-Apple products. But basic functionality works perfectly fine.

Myth 4: “The iPhone 12 Pro Used to Come with AirPods”

Partially false. Older iPhones (before iPhone 12) came with EarPods, which are wired earbuds with a Lightning connector. These are different from AirPods, which are wireless. Even back then, you didn’t get AirPods for free.

Myth 5: “You Can’t Get a Good Audio Experience Without AirPods”

Not true. Many third-party earbuds offer equal or better sound quality than AirPods. Brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser are renowned for audio excellence. AirPods are popular because of their Apple integration, not necessarily because they have the best sound.

The Bottom Line: Making Your Decision

So, let’s bring it all together. The iPhone 12 Pro does not come with AirPods, and Apple has no plans to change this policy. When you buy an iPhone 12 Pro, you’re paying for the phone itself, not the accessories.

Your next steps should be:

1. Decide if you need earbuds right away. If you’re using your old earbuds or don’t listen to music much, you might be fine for now.
2. Set a budget. Wireless earbuds range from $20 to $550, so know how much you want to spend.
3. Research your options. Read reviews, watch comparison videos, and consider what features matter most to you.
4. Look for deals. Bundle deals, sales events, and trade-in offers can save you significant money.
5. Buy from reputable sources. Stick with Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, or authorized retailers to avoid counterfeit products.

Remember, there’s no rush. The iPhone 12 Pro is an excellent phone that works perfectly fine without AirPods. Take your time, do your research, and choose the audio solution that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Whether you end up with AirPods Pro for their seamless Apple integration, Sony WF-1000XM5 for their noise cancellation, or a budget pair of Anker Soundcores for casual listening, you’ll be able to enjoy music, podcasts, calls, and movies on your iPhone 12 Pro. The most important thing is finding what works for you.

Happy listening!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the iPhone 12 Pro come with free AirPods?

No, the iPhone 12 Pro does not come with AirPods included in the box. Apple stopped bundling headphones and power adapters starting with the iPhone 12 lineup. You’ll need to purchase AirPods separately if you want them.

What is included in the iPhone 12 Pro box?

The iPhone 12 Pro box contains the phone, a USB-C to Lightning charging cable, documentation, and an Apple logo sticker. There is no power adapter, no EarPods, and no AirPods included with the device.

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

Apple removed EarPods and the power adapter to reduce electronic waste and carbon emissions. The company stated that most users already owned these items, and removing them allowed for smaller packaging and more efficient shipping, saving over 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.

How much do AirPods cost separately?

AirPods prices range from $129 for AirPods (2nd generation) to $549 for AirPods Max. AirPods (3rd generation) cost $169, and AirPods Pro (2nd generation) cost $249. Prices may vary by retailer and available promotions.

Can I use non-Apple wireless earbuds with my iPhone 12 Pro?

Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro works with any Bluetooth wireless earbuds from brands like Sony, Bose, Samsung, Jabra, and many others. While you may miss some Apple-specific features like instant pairing and spatial audio, basic functionality works perfectly with third-party options.

Are there any deals for getting AirPods with an iPhone 12 Pro?

Yes, retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and carrier stores (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) often offer bundle deals, discounts, or promotional gift cards when you purchase AirPods together with an iPhone. You can also find deals during major sales events like Black Friday, Prime Day, or back-to-school promotions.