Mystery new charging accessory from Apple, Google wants in on self-repairs

A new charging accessory is on the way

Apple accidentally leaked a yet to be announced charging accessory in an online support document. As first reported by 9to5 Mac, Apple has a 35W dual USB-C charger in the pipeline. The product has yet to surface and so it would seem that the tech giant inadvertently leaked it.

Use the Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter and a USB-C cable (not included) to charge your device. Connect a USB-C cable to either port on the power adapter, extend the electrical prongs (if necessary), then plug the power adapter firmly into the power outlet. Ensure the power outlet is easily accessible for disconnecting. Connect the other end of the cable to your device.
Apple Support, via 9to5 Mac

Details beyond this are scarce and it isn’t clear if Apple has a particular use case for the accessory in mind, assuming it sees the light of day of course. But there are multiple devices that could benefit. For instance, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is capable of 27w fast charging. And while 35w would not fast charge two iPhones, it provides enough overhead that accessories such as Apple Watch could also fast-charge. The Apple Watch for context, fast charges at 5w.

Google partners with iFixit

In a rather timely move, it seems Google is following Apple’s plans for a self-repair program. Today the search giant announced it is partnering with iFixit for self-repairs of their Pixel line of smartphones. The firm outlines that devices from Pixel 2 and later will be eligible for the program.

iFixit will sell official spare parts and service manuals to make it easier for users to complete repairs at home. Or in the alternative, it enables independent technicians to easily purchase and have access to high-quality components. Google has also lauded the benefits of self-repairs from a sustainability point of view.

When we built the first Pixel phone just five years ago, we made a commitment to design our hardware products in a way that’s sustainable and puts our customers first. There’s more to do, including expanding our repair network and improving repairability across our products. We look forward to sharing more as we make progress on this promise.
Google

The AppleTLDR take

Google picked their moment carefully. The announcement come just one day after the European Union announced new ‘right to repair’ legislation. And this move was also increasingly more likely given that arch-rival, Apple, announced a similar program a few months ago.