The iPhone 15 does not include a power adapter in the box

Apple stopped including a charger with the iPhone 15 starting in 2023. When you open the box, you get the phone itself, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and documentation. That is all. You need to buy a power adapter separately if you do not already own one that works with USB-C.

This change applies to all iPhone 15 models: the standard iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Apple made the same decision with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13, so if you have owned a recent iPhone, you may already have a compatible adapter at home.

The cable itself is new. The iPhone 15 switched from the older Lightning connector to USB-C, which is the same port used by Android phones, iPads, and most modern devices. If you have a USB-C power adapter from another device — a Samsung phone, a laptop, an iPad Pro — it will charge your iPhone 15.

Key Takeaways

  • The iPhone 15 box contains only the phone, a USB-C cable, and paperwork — no power adapter.
  • You can use any USB-C power adapter you already own, including ones from Android phones, laptops, or tablets.
  • Apple sells official adapters separately in 20W, 35W, and higher wattages, but third-party USB-C adapters work just as well.
  • Wireless charging still works with any Qi-compatible charger, so you do not need to buy anything if you already use wireless charging.

What power adapters work with iPhone 15

Any USB-C power adapter will charge your iPhone 15. This includes adapters from other phones, tablets, and computers. A 20W adapter charges the phone at normal speed. A 30W or higher adapter charges it slightly faster, but the difference is usually just a few minutes.

Apple sells official adapters under its own brand in 20W, 35W, and 140W versions. The 20W and 35W are the most common choices for phone charging. Third-party brands like Anker, Belkin, and others make USB-C adapters that work identically and often cost less. Look for adapters labeled "USB-C" and check the wattage — anything from 20W up will work fine.

If you have an older iPhone with a Lightning cable, those adapters will not work with the iPhone 15. The iPhone 15 requires USB-C on both ends of the cable. However, if you have upgraded any other device to USB-C in the last few years, you likely have a compatible adapter already.

Wireless charging still works without buying anything new

The iPhone 15 supports Qi wireless charging, the same standard used by older iPhones. If you already own a wireless charging pad or stand, it will charge your iPhone 15 without any changes. You do not need to buy a new wireless charger.

Wireless charging is slower than wired charging — it typically takes 30 to 45 minutes for a full charge, compared to 20 to 30 minutes with a wired adapter. But if you charge overnight or at your desk, the speed difference does not matter. Many people use wireless charging at home and keep a USB-C adapter in their bag for travel.

Why Apple removed the charger from the box

Apple stated that removing the charger reduces packaging waste and electronic waste, since many people already own USB-C adapters. The company also noted that the iPhone 15 uses less power than older models, so older adapters work fine.

The decision is controversial. Some people appreciate not paying for a charger they already own. Others find it frustrating to discover they need to buy one separately. If you are upgrading from an iPhone 13 or earlier, you will need a new adapter because those phones used Lightning, not USB-C.

How to choose a USB-C adapter for iPhone 15

For most people, a 20W USB-C adapter is the right choice. It charges the iPhone 15 at full speed and costs less than higher-wattage models. If you plan to charge other devices at the same time — a tablet or laptop — a 35W or 65W adapter gives you more flexibility without adding much cost.

Check the adapter's wattage rating on the box or product listing. Anything labeled 20W or higher will work. Avoid very cheap adapters with no brand name, as they may be slower or less reliable. Established brands like Apple, Anker, Belkin, and Amazon Basics all make adapters that work well.

If you travel frequently, consider buying a small 20W adapter to keep in your bag and leaving a larger one at home. USB-C adapters are now standard, so you can use the same one for your phone, tablet, and laptop.

What else comes in the iPhone 15 box

Inside the box you will find the iPhone 15 itself, one USB-C to USB-C cable, and printed documentation. That is the complete contents. There is no SIM card ejector tool, no screen protector, and no case.

You will need to buy a case separately if you want one — the iPhone 15 is not as durable without protection. A screen protector is optional; the iPhone 15 uses Gorilla Glass Ceramic Shield, which is tougher than previous versions but still scratches if you drop it on rough surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old iPhone charger with the iPhone 15?

Only if it is USB-C. iPhone 13 and earlier used Lightning connectors, so those chargers will not work. If you have a USB-C adapter from an iPad Pro, Android phone, or laptop, it will charge your iPhone 15 without any problem.

Is the iPhone 15 slower to charge without the official Apple adapter?

No. Third-party USB-C adapters charge the iPhone 15 at the same speed as Apple's official adapters, as long as they are 20W or higher. The phone itself controls the charging speed, not the adapter brand.

Do I need to buy MagSafe or a special case for iPhone 15?

No. MagSafe is built into the iPhone 15, so any MagSafe-compatible case or accessory will work. You do not need to buy anything special — a regular case works fine, and MagSafe is optional.

Will my wireless charger work with iPhone 15?

Yes, if it uses the Qi standard. Almost all wireless chargers made in the last five years are Qi-compatible. Check your charger's box or manual if you are unsure, but most will work with the iPhone 15 without any changes.

What wattage adapter should I buy?

A 20W adapter is sufficient and the most affordable option. If you charge multiple devices or want faster charging, 35W or 65W adapters work just as well and cost only slightly more. Anything above 20W will not charge the iPhone 15 faster than 20W does.