Brazilian authorities have once again penalized Apple for its practice of selling iPhones without including a power adapter in the box. The latest fine, amounting to roughly $20,000, underscores a continuing disagreement over consumer rights and product completeness. This isn’t a new issue for the tech giant, which has faced similar challenges in Brazil since removing the charger from iPhone packaging in 2020.
The consumer protection watchdog in the state of Alagoas, known as Procon-AL, levied the fine of R$101,627.50 (approximately $20,000 USD as of February 25, 2026) arguing that the power adapter is an “indispensable item for the regular use of the product.” The decision highlights a growing trend of regulatory scrutiny regarding the environmental impact and consumer cost associated with unbundled accessories. The core of the dispute centers on whether shifting the cost of an essential component to the consumer is a violation of consumer protection laws.
Brazilian Regulators Cite Consumer Vulnerability
Procon-AL’s assessment found that requiring consumers to purchase a power adapter separately violates principles of decent faith, transparency, and acknowledges consumer vulnerability. According to a statement from the agency, Apple’s decision places an undue burden on customers. The initial fine was approximately $12,000, but was increased to around $20,000 due to aggravating factors under Brazilian regulations and what Procon-AL described as Apple’s lack of effort to resolve the complaint. This escalation demonstrates the seriousness with which Brazilian authorities are treating the issue.
This isn’t the first time Apple has faced repercussions in Brazil over this policy. In 2022, the Brazilian Ministry of Justice ordered a suspension of iPhone sales in the country over the same practice. Prior to that, in 2021, Apple was fined approximately $2 million for selling iPhones without chargers. The repeated enforcement actions suggest a firm stance from Brazilian regulators against Apple’s approach.
Apple’s Response and Potential Appeal
Apple’s Brazilian subsidiary has 20 days to appeal the latest decision. If the appeal is unsuccessful, the fine amount will be adjusted based on Brazil’s IPCA-E inflation index. The company has not yet publicly commented on this specific fine as of February 25, 2026, but has previously defended its decision to remove the charger, citing environmental concerns related to reducing packaging and electronic waste. However, Brazilian authorities appear unconvinced, prioritizing consumer rights and the completeness of the product as sold.
Broader Context: The Charger Debate
Apple’s decision to stop including power adapters with iPhones, beginning with the iPhone 12 in 2020, was framed as an environmental initiative. The company argued that it would significantly reduce carbon emissions by eliminating hundreds of thousands of tons of packaging and avoiding the production of unnecessary chargers. However, critics argued that the move was primarily cost-cutting and placed an unfair burden on consumers, particularly those who didn’t already own a compatible USB-C power adapter. The debate extends beyond Apple, with other manufacturers also re-evaluating the inclusion of accessories in their product packaging.
Currently, the latest iPhone models available in Brazil, as of February 2026, include the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16e, with prices ranging from approximately BRL 3,770 (around $740 USD) for the iPhone 16e to BRL 6,235 (around $1220 USD) for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Mobile57 provides a detailed breakdown of current pricing and specifications.
Apple is also reportedly shifting some iPhone assembly to Brazil to mitigate the impact of tariffs and diversify its supply chain. SimplyMac reports this move is intended to manage supply chain risks and potentially reduce costs associated with importing iPhones.
The outcome of Apple’s appeal in Brazil will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for other countries considering similar regulations regarding included accessories. The case highlights the ongoing tension between environmental sustainability, consumer rights, and corporate cost-cutting measures in the technology industry.
What remains to be seen is whether Apple will adjust its strategy for the Brazilian market or continue to challenge the regulatory decisions. The company’s response will likely influence future discussions about product packaging and consumer expectations globally.
Have your say: Do you perceive it’s fair for companies to sell devices without essential accessories? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
