iPhone 12 leak just confirmed one of the biggest rumors

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The iPhone 12 won't come with this accessory according to iOS 14 beta code

iPhone 12
(Image credit: EverythingApplePro)

The iPhone 12 is losing another accessory from its box, according to the newest version of iOS 14.

Within iOS 14.2 beta, and spotted by MacRumors, a section of text discussing user exposure to radio frequency (RF) energy has had one important word removed. It wouldn't be much by itself, but other rumors indicate that this omission carries a lot of meaning.

This all hinges on the phrase "supplied headphones." That's what previous versions of iOS have used in the following passage, as you can see in MacRumors' image below.

But in iOS 14.2, the same passage now just says "headphones."

Because that text doesn't talk about supplying headphones, it seems to confirm other rumors and predictions that Apple was removing the wired EarPods that it normally includes in its phone boxes for the iPhone 12.

The iPhone 12 reportedly won't ship with a charger either, in order to cut costs and reduce electronic waste. It's similar to what Apple has just done with the Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE. Neither of the company's two newly introduced smartwatches come with charging bricks.

Of course, this decision will also help the uptake of Apple's already popular AirPods and AirPods Pro earbuds, as users decide to make the jump to wireless earbuds after relying on traditional headphones with 3.5mm or Lightning connectors. Some users may prefer the over-ear design of the rumored AirPods Studio, thought to be releasing later this year.

What should still be included in the box is a USB-C to Lightning cable. In return for removing other accessories and again to help reduce waste, this cable could be a more durable braided design, meaning you won't have to replace it as quickly as you would one of Apple's normal plastic-sheathed wires.

We're anticipating the reveal of the iPhone 12 range on October 13, as well as Apple's new AirTags trackers. The iPhone 12 will come in four different models, measuring either 5.4, 6.1 or 6.7 inches depending on the one you choose.

All new iPhone 12 models be powered by an A14 Bionic chipset, have 5G compatibility and use OLED displays, while the two iPhone 12 Pros should offer more storage and a telephoto camera. The LiDAR depth sensor may be limited to the largest iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Richard Priday
Richard Priday
Assistant Phones Editor

Richard is based in London, covering news, reviews and how-tos for phones, tablets, gaming, and whatever else people need advice on. Following on from his MA in Magazine Journalism at the University of Sheffield, he's also written for WIRED U.K., The Register and Creative Bloq. When not at work, he's likely thinking about how to brew the perfect cup of specialty coffee.