Time: 2024-06-29
Apple is preparing to settle two lawsuits next month over alleged iPhone flaws, provided the respective judges agree to the terms of the deals. The first planned settlement aims to resolve investor pique over the impact of "Batterygate" on Apple stock. The case seeks compensation for unexplained iPhone shutdowns that started occurring in 2016 due to battery aging. Apple was accused of secretly slowing down older iPhone models without the owner's knowledge. This scandal led to fines and consumer litigation that resulted in a settlement worth up to $500 million.
In a further sign of capitulation to the Right to Repair movement, Apple made its software repair tool, Apple Diagnostics for Self Service Repair, available in 32 European countries. The settlement requires Apple to notify customers clearly when it makes changes to iOS Performance Management and imposes transparency commitments on its chief compliance officer. The second claim awaiting settlement approval is a lawsuit over an alleged audio chip defect in iPhone 7 and 7 Plus models. Apple has denied the allegations but is willing to pay $35 million to resolve the claim.
The deadline to claim a portion of the $35 million settlement fund has been extended. The lawsuit addressed alleged audio issues linked to the "audio IC" chip in iPhone 7 and 7 Plus devices. Apple denies any wrongdoing and disputes the claims. Members who paid Apple for repairs related to audio issues will receive compensation ranging from $50 to $349. Members who reported audio issues to Apple but did not pay for repairs will receive up to $125.
To receive compensation, Settlement Class Members must notify the Settlement Administrator of their preferred payment method by July 3, 2024. Failure to provide payment information by the deadline will result in forfeiture of the Class Payment. The Final Approval Hearing is scheduled for July 18, 2024, at 2 p.m. If approved, affected members of the class could receive payments based on their interactions with Apple regarding audio issues in iPhone 7 and 7 Plus devices.
In conclusion, Apple's settlements over iPhone 7 flaws demonstrate a willingness to address consumer grievances and provide compensation for affected users. The company's commitment to transparency and repairability reflects a shift towards prioritizing customer satisfaction and compliance with legal requirements. The extended deadline for claim submission offers affected users more time to seek compensation for the alleged audio issues on their devices.
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