USB-C you later, in-box cables?

Tech companies are increasingly removing USB-C cables from product boxes, following a trend initiated by Apple with chargers, while Google may switch to MediaTek for its Pixel modem, and Samsung is reconsidering its Galaxy S26 lineup based on consumer preference for a 'Plus' model over an 'Edge' variant.

• Tech companies are phasing out included USB-C cables, following Apple's precedent with chargers.

• Google may transition to MediaTek modems for future Pixel phones, promising improved performance.

• Samsung is likely reintroducing a Galaxy S26 Plus model due to poor Edge sales and strong consumer demand.

A new trend sees companies, led by Apple, starting to exclude USB-C cables from product packaging, mirroring the earlier removal of charging bricks. This move raises questions about environmental benefits versus cost-saving and increased accessory sales, with consumer polls showing a divided opinion on the necessity of included cables. Meanwhile, Google's Pixel smartphones might transition from Samsung to MediaTek for their Tensor modems, potentially improving connectivity and efficiency, and Samsung is reportedly reintroducing a Galaxy S26 Plus model due to low S25 Edge sales and strong consumer preference.

Removal of USB-C Cables

• 00:00:00 Tech companies are initiating a trend of not including USB-C cables with new products, a practice first seen in a major smartphone. This follows Apple's 2020 decision to remove chargers from iPhone 12 boxes, which the company justified by citing environmental benefits like reduced e-waste and lighter shipments. Critics, however, argue this move primarily served to cut packaging costs and boost sales of additional chargers, a strategy soon adopted by most Android manufacturers.

Cable-Free Future & Consumer Response

• 00:02:11 Apple is extending its cable-free approach by not including USB-C cables with its new AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3, and Sony also omitted a USB-C cable from its Xperia 10 Mark VII phone. An Android Authority poll revealed that while 37% of respondents, who often possess ample cables, are fine with this omission, a significant 63% consider a USB-C cable an essential component, concerned about using low-quality or outdated cables that may not provide expected charging speeds. This shift is likely to become widespread if major players like Apple continue to lead the trend.

Google's Modem Shift

• 00:04:39 Google may be switching from Samsung to MediaTek for the modem in its upcoming Tensor G6 chipset, expected in the Pixel 11 series in 2026. While Google's Tensor G5 chip, made by TSMC, marked a move towards self-made silicon, it still used a Samsung modem. A rumored adoption of MediaTek's M90 modem, launched earlier this year, could bring significant improvements in connectivity, performance, and efficiency for Pixel phones, addressing a long-standing complaint from users regarding efficiency.

Samsung's Galaxy S26 Lineup

• 00:06:33 Samsung is reportedly reconsidering its Galaxy S26 lineup, potentially adding a 'Plus' model back into the series. Previously, there were rumors of an S26 Pro, S26 Edge, and S26 Ultra, but a new 'M Plus' model has been added late in development. This decision is attributed to lower-than-expected sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge, with consumer polls overwhelmingly favoring a Galaxy S26 Plus over an S26 Edge, indicating a clear preference Samsung may heed.