The $19 Million Were Termed as Social Damages, According to the Brazilian Court
A report published by Reuters states that a ruling has been made that will force Apple to pay a $19 million fine in ‘social damages.’ The decision was apparently made by the Brazilian association of borrowers, consumers, and taxpayers (AMBCC). Apple stopped bundling chargers with iPhones ever since the iPhone 12’s inception to cut down on carbon emissions and reduce electronic waste accumulation. Since consumers already own iPhone chargers, the California-based firm believes that it would be pointless to provide chargers with each successive handset, though it should be noted that Apple continues to sell them separately. From a business perspective, providing chargers with each iPhone also eats into the profit margins, however small that cost may be, so it is an added bonus, though Apple will likely never admit it due to its propensity to carry on its current and future environmental-friendly campaigns. Apple will reportedly appeal the decision, though the Sao Paulo state court’s ruling stands firm, believing that the company commits abusive practices by selling its flagship product without a charger. Shortly after Apple, competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi stopped providing chargers, even with highly expensive smartphones such as foldable variants, despite charging a hefty sum from consumers. Given that this is not the first time the Brazilian authorities have gone after Apple for their perceived anti-consumer business practices, it is possible the fine has to be paid. News Source: Reuters
