Apple may be forced to bundle iPhone with a free adapter in Brazil, reports Appleinsider, citing a statement by the city of São Paulo.
In a message posted on the website of the state consumer protection organization Procon-SP, local authorities demanded that Apple sell complete smartphones. The statement says that the charger is an integral part of the iPhone itself. City officials stressed that refusing to provide a free Apple charger violates consumer rights in Brazil.
The document also states that Apple was unable to clearly explain the environmental benefits following the ditching the full iPhone package. Earlier, representatives of Procon-SP turned to the American company to explain why the adapter is no longer put in the box with the smartphone. Apple responded that such a solution would help reduce the carbon footprint of every device it makes.
According to journalists, the Brazilian consumer rights organization is considering giving Apple a similar notice. If successful, the government could force the corporation to sell the iPhone with the adapter throughout Brazil.
Apple removed the charging adapter and wired headphones from the set of all smartphones sold after the release of the iPhone 12 series devices. The company explained this step with concern for the environment, analysts – with the desire to save money and attract the attention of consumers to AirPods. In France, where local law requires every smartphone to come with a headset, Apple continued to sell iPhones with included earbuds.