Apple is once again under pressure in Brazil for selling iPhones without a charger. A new fine has been imposed in the state of Alagoas because the power adapter is considered essential for the normal use of the product. This case is the latest in a series of actions taken by Brazilian authorities against Apple.
Since Apple began selling iPhones without a power adapter, this practice has sparked global debate. While Apple justifies the move with environmental arguments and the reduction of electronic waste, Brazilian consumer protection agencies view the situation differently. In Brazil, the charger is considered an essential component of the product.
The recent decision in the state of Alagoas shows that the conflict between Apple and the Brazilian authorities is escalating.
New fine against Apple in Alagoas
Consumer protection authorities in the Brazilian state of Alagoas have fined Apple 101,627.50 R$, equivalent to approximately $20,000.
According to the news portal Alagoas 24 Horas, which MacMagazine cites, the authorities see the decision to remove the power adapter from the iPhone packaging as a violation of the Brazilian consumer protection code.
The responsible consumer protection agency, Procon-AL, stated that the company violates the principles of objective fairness, transparency, and the protection of vulnerable consumers. Specifically, it criticizes the fact that consumers are forced to purchase an essential accessory separately for the proper use of the product.
A smartphone cannot be used normally without a charging option. From the authority's perspective, the charger is therefore not an optional accessory, but a necessary component of the product.
Increased sentence due to aggravating factors
The fine was initially set at approximately $12,000. Later, however, Procon-AL increased the amount to about $20,000, citing aggravating factors under Brazilian law.
As an additional reason, the authority stated that Apple had not made sufficient efforts to resolve the complaint out of court. This lack of cooperation was considered an aggravating factor.
Apple has already faced multiple legal challenges in Brazil
This current case is not the first conflict between Apple and Brazilian authorities over the missing charger.
In 2022, the Brazilian Ministry of Justice even ordered a suspension of iPhone sales in Brazil. This measure came a year after Apple had already been fined approximately $2 million for the same practice.
Back then, the authorities also argued that removing the charger from its packaging violated consumer rights. The repeated sanctions demonstrate that the Brazilian authorities are consistently upholding their position.
Appeal period and possible adjustment of the fine
Following the latest decision, Apple's Brazilian subsidiary has 20 days to appeal.
If the appeal is rejected, the amount of the fine will be adjusted again. This adjustment will be based on the Brazilian inflation index IPCA-E. This means that the amount payable can increase further depending on inflation trends.
Apple and Brazil: The conflict continues to escalate
Apple continues to face regulatory pressure in Brazil. The latest fine in the state of Alagoas underscores that the dispute over the iPhone without a charger is far from over. While Apple maintains its global strategy, Brazilian consumer advocates see it as a clear violation of applicable law.
The coming weeks will show whether Apple appeals the decision or accepts the penalty. What is certain is that the issue of Apple and the iPhone without a charger will remain politically and legally relevant in Brazil. (Image: Shutterstock / mrscotzprophoto)
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