Anyone planning to pre-order Apple's newly announced AirPods 5 should be aware of one detail before checkout: neither model comes with a USB-C cable or a power adapter in the box. Buyers will need to supply their own accessories to keep the earbuds charged.

What's included with each model

Apple is offering two versions of the AirPods 5. The lower-priced option supports wired charging only, so owners will need a USB-C cable of their own to top up the case. The pricier version adds a wireless charging case, giving buyers more flexibility in how they refill the battery.

With the wireless charging case, owners can use a USB-C cable, an Apple Watch charging puck, a MagSafe charger, or a standard Qi charger. In either configuration, though, the necessary cable or charging accessory is not supplied by Apple.

Why Apple leaves out the cable

The move continues a broader trend by Apple of removing charging accessories from product packaging. The company has previously stopped bundling power adapters with iPhones and cables with certain other devices, citing environmental goals and the reduction of electronic waste. The assumption is that most customers already own compatible USB-C cables and chargers from other Apple or third-party products.

For buyers upgrading from older earbuds or coming from a different ecosystem, however, the omission can be an unexpected added cost. A basic USB-C cable is inexpensive, but it is still something to factor in before the AirPods can be charged out of the box.

What buyers should check before ordering

Before pre-ordering, it is worth confirming which charging methods you already have on hand. Those choosing the wired-only model simply need a USB-C cable. Buyers of the wireless charging case have more options and can rely on any Qi or MagSafe pad they may already own, in addition to a cable.

  • Wired-only model: requires a USB-C cable, not included.
  • Wireless charging case model: works with USB-C cable, MagSafe, Qi, or an Apple Watch puck, none of which are included.

The bottom line is that the AirPods 5 follow Apple's established packaging approach, so plan to have a charging cable or wireless pad ready when the earbuds arrive.