Since the launch of the iPhone 12, Apple has removed chargers and wired earphones from the box. For this reason, iPhone users must purchase EarPods and a charger adapter separately.
The reason apart from cutting production costs, this kind of policy will also make Apple more environmentally friendly because it reduces waste.
And this also applies to Apple's new device, the recently launched iPhone 13. Because of this Apple was also criticized by consumer protection regulators in Brazil where they have announced they will investigate Apple.
Previously, a similar case had occurred in 2020, at which time Apple was forced to re-enter the charger in the iPhone 12 sales package and was fined USD 2 million in early 2021. Unfortunately, Apple did the same thing with its iPhone 13 sales in Brazil.
Maybe for Apple the fine is cheaper than having to put the charger back in the sales box. Because the buyer will be 'forced' to buy a charger so that the money to pay the fine can be there in a short time.
Procon-SP Executive Director Fernando Capez, who first reported the matter, stressed that it is illegal to sell the phone and charger separately because it makes consumers obliged to buy two products.
He also said that although Apple claimed they informed consumers that the iPhone 13 would be sold without a charger in the box, such information was not sufficient.
Capez also stated that he is now exploring the possibility of a class action lawsuit to help consumers who feel they should be given free chargers.