The consumer protection agency in Brazil, Procon-SP, has fined Apple nearly R$10.55 million (about £1.38 million) for removing the power adapter from the iPhone 12 series and newer production runs of older iPhones. Apple’s move was a violation of the country’s Consumer Defense Code, according to the watchdog.
Procon-SP told Apple about the alleged violation in December and Apple responded by reiterating its environmental angle, arguing that it would reduce CO2 emissions and rare earth mining. It noted that many customers already had spare chargers.
However, Procon-SP wasn’t satisfied with that answer, however. In issuing the fine, Procon-SP executive director Fernando Capez told Apple it needed to respect Brazilian law.
“Apple needs to understand that in Brazil there are solid consumer protection laws and institutions. It needs to respect these laws and these institutions”, said the executive director of Procon-SP, Fernando Capez.
The fine also covers allegedly misleading water resistance claims. Apple supposedly declined to repair iPhones that had suffered water damage under warranty despite touting the devices’ ability to survive immersion for extended periods.
Procon-SP also says it has received complaints from consumers about problems with iPhones after system updates.
“Despite being notified, Apple did not provide explanations about several questions raised,” the agency said.
Apple can appeal the decision, ask Procon to re-evaluate, or go to ordinary court.
